New York State Senator John J. Bonacic (R/C/I – Mt. Hope) and Ulster County Legislator Craig Lopez (R/C/I – Shawangunk) announced today that the 2015-2016 New York State Budget will include a full restoration of $8.5 million in funding for the Spinal Cord Injury Research Program.  

 The program, which was created in 1998, has authorized over $71 million in grants for spinal cord injury research since its inception.  However, starting in 2010, there was no funding provided for new grants for several years.  Due to the advocacy of Senator Bonacic, $2 million was provided in the 2013-14 State Budget and $7 million was provided last year.  Senator Bonacic has carried legislation since 2011 which would create a permanent floor of funding for the program.

 “I am glad to see full restoration of funding for the Spinal Cord Injury Research Program and I would like to thank Legislator Craig Lopez for his advocacy on this issue,” said Senator Bonacic.

 “The New York State Spinal Cord Injury Research Program is a key source of funding for cutting-edge medical research, and in the process, serves as a catalyst for high-tech jobs in New York,” said Legislator Lopez.  “Funding this program is a win-win for public health and economic development.  I would like to personally thank Senator Bonacic for his hard work on behalf of those with spinal cord injuries.  This funding is key to help provide the research needed to find a cure.”

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