In response to news that New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has signed into law the Drug Take Back Act, Ulster County Executive Mike Hein today issued the following statement:

“I want to thank Governor Andrew Cuomo for signing into law this critically important bill, which requires drug companies and chain pharmacies to take back unused pharmaceuticals. This accomplishment represents the culmination of two years of advocacy and effort, and will play a critical role in reducing the amount of opioids on our streets, and – in turn – will help save lives.

“My administration, joined by so many partners across Ulster County, has worked tirelessly to improve supports for substance abuse prevention, treatment and recovery. While not a cure-all, part of any comprehensive solution must include an environmentally-responsible way of disposing of unneeded medications, which when left in medicine cabinets provide a tempting target for theft or abuse.

“I also want to extend my sincere appreciation to Assembly member Aileen Gunther and Senator Kemp Hannon who sponsored this important Legislation and the many other partners who lent their support, including the Ulster County Legislature, the Ulster County Environmental Management Council, Riverkeeper and so many others.

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Video: https://youtu.be/qAg162sDyHE