Rubbing elbows in the Empire State!

Over the past month, there has been significant activity in Albany as the State’s policy agenda for the year officially took shape and our advocates continued building strong relationships with decision-makers across New York.

Presence at the State of the State

Our team was proud to be present in Albany for the Governor’s State of the State address and have one of our CPR kiosks at the reception. The event provided an opportunity to engage with policymakers, coalition partners, state agencies, and stakeholders while reinforcing the importance of hands-only CPR and public health policy. Being in the room helps ensure our priorities remain visible as legislative and budget conversations begin.

Governor Releases Executive Budget

Governor Hochul released her Executive Budget, outlining priorities that include several important public health measures. Notably, the proposal includes efforts to strengthen cardiac emergency readiness,  reinforcing the growing statewide commitment to ensuring schools and community spaces are equipped, prepared, and people are trained to respond to sudden cardiac arrest. This builds recent momentum across New York to protect students, staff, and community members through coordinated cardiac emergency response plans in schools. The Governor’s proposal presents a significant opportunity for us to potentially get funding for CERPs, CPR in schools, and T-CPR training for dispatchers.

The budget also proposes increasing tobacco taxes, a proven strategy to reduce youth initiation, support cessation, and improve long-term health outcomes. Higher tobacco prices remain one of the most effective ways to prevent addiction and reduce preventable disease across communities.

We will continue working with the Legislature and the Executive throughout budget negotiations to help ensure these measures are included in the final budget.

Advocates Engaging Lawmakers Across New York

Beyond Albany, our local Rochester market team spent time this month meeting directly with Assemblywoman Bailey in her district office. Our strong local presence continues to be critical in demonstrating the impact of our work to lawmakers beyond our policy efforts and shows our lifesaving work, investments, and improved health outcomes at the local level.