Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele, Jr.

Governor Hochul will deliver her 2024 State of the State address today at 1:00 p.m. for more information including live coverage of the address, visit: https://www.governor.ny.gov/

Today and every day, let's unite in the fight against poverty. Together, we can create a world where everyone has access to the resources they need. "

Reflecting on the events of January 6, 2021—a day etched in memory. Over 2,000 rioters shook the foundation of our democracy, attacking the Capitol. Lives were lost, officers injured. It was an assault on our values. Yet, amidst chaos, our brave law enforcement stood firm, heroes in defense of democracy. We mourn those lost, honoring their sacrifice. This day taught us the fragility of democracy. In New York, we champion voting access, affirming our commitment to America. We condemn the violence and stand resolute in upholding democratic ideals.

Work and other obligations can make it difficult for many to find time to vote. The New York Early Mail Voter Act, now in effect, provides for early mail-in voting, strengthening our democratic process by allowing voters to easily and securely cast their ballots when it’s convenient for them.

In the New York State (NYS) assembly we pass many important laws. Here are some of the laws that go into effect this month.

the New York State Police has begun accepting applications for the next Trooper Entrance Examination. Applications will be accepted until March 4, 2024, with testing available until March 17, 2024. To learn more about the process, the qualifications, and how to apply to become a New York State Trooper, candidates may visit: https://joinstatepolice.ny.gov/

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas filled with love, laughter, and all the festive feels. Assembly offices will be closed on Monday, December 25th and Tuesday, December 26th in observance of Christmas.

Join the New York State Parks Centennial Challenge in 2024!  Explore, learn, and give back as we celebrate 100 years of our state parks. Complete 24 missions, earn a commemorative sticker, and enter to win exciting prizes.

Some of the Centennial Challenge missions include:

- Go camping at one of more than 8,500 campsites

-Visit a “new-to-you” state park or historic site and bring a picnic

-Pack your skates and go skating at one of state parks’ ice rinks

-Talk to an interpreter about the history of a state historic site

-Join a volunteer event

-Learn the Leave No Trace principles and apply them during your next visit

Get ready for an adventure! Learn more at: parks.ny.gov/100/challenge

Happy First Day of Winter! Embracing cozy moments, frosty landscapes, and the magic of a fresh start.

I am proud to have co-sponsored several bills during the 2023 Legislative Session that demonstrate our Assembly's commitment to making New York a leader in environmental issues. The allocation of $500 million for the Clean Water Infrastructure Act will help ensure access to clean and safe water for all New Yorkers. While not explicitly scored, the State Budget also secured important policy wins for the environment, including $400 million for the Environmental Protection Fund and utility bill relief for low- and middle-income energy ratepayers as NYS continues to move away from fossil fuel use. Funding for workforce training programs to bolster the state’s transition to clean energy sources further emphasize our commitment to a sustainable future. I would like to express my gratitude to the New York League of Conservation Voters for recognizing my work and for their continuous commitment to the environment. Together, we can create a greener and more sustainable New York State.

I’ll always choose consumers over corporations’ profit margins. To protect hardworking families from additional financial stress, I helped pass laws to:

require companies to clearly post credit card transaction surcharges;

prohibit medication price gouging to keep health care affordable;

exclude medical debt from credit reports so patients receive care without facing financial ruin; and

require businesses to notify consumers about upcoming automatic renewal or continuous service charges (Chs. 723, 725, 727 and 728 of 2023).

Thrilled to share the fantastic news! The New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) has awarded grants totaling $388,500 to 12 outstanding organizations and artists right here in our district.  This round of funding covers a diverse array of opportunities, from operational and programmatic support to creative commissions, rehearsal and studio space assistance, and backing for regional regrant partners. A heartfelt thank you to my colleagues in the Legislature for their dedication! This year's $110 million investment in our state’s arts and culture is making waves – revitalizing communities, boosting tourism, and creating jobs in every corner of New York. Here's to the power of the arts in shaping our communities and enriching our lives!  See the list of grantees:

Community Action Southold Town, Inc.

East Hampton Historical Society

EDGE AND CENTER INC

EDGE AND CENTER INC

Friends of the Cultural Center, Inc.

LANDCRAFT GARDEN FOUNDATION INC

Local TV Inc.

Ma's House & BIPOC Art Studio Inc

Research Foundation for SUNY Stony Brook

SCOA, Inc. (d/b/a Southampton Arts Center)

Southampton History Museum

Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center, Inc.

I, together with my fellow members of Assembly, have collectively signed a joint letter addressing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). We urge Governor Hochul to support an adequate SNAP benefit of $100 per month on her 2024-2025 Executive Budget.

Recently, I joined my fellow Assemblymembers in signing a letter to the Governor and the New York Power Authority Board of Trustees about New York’s public renewables commitment. By including the public and their representatives in the planning process, we will be able to deliver the full benefits of the public renewables to our districts.

Despite inflation easing, many New Yorkers face financial strains. New York State is committed to enhancing lives. In 2016, we raised the minimum wage to $15, with an additional increase to $16 on Jan 1, 2024. From 2025, it rises by 50 cents annually, tied to the CPI-W for the Northeast. These changes aim to pave the way for a stronger New York, aligning with other states' efforts. Indexing to inflation ensures our workers can afford necessities, addressing economic, gender, and racial disparities. This step acknowledges the pressing need to tackle the cost of living. Stay tuned for more updates on our journey toward a more equitable future.

Our public highways, especially on Long Island, can be a dangerous place. Improving highway safety must always be our paramount goal for New York. One of the greatest threats to the public is the proliferation of unlicensed drivers who continue to operate motor vehicles, despite being repeatedly cited for having a suspended or revoked license. Angelica Nappi was a tragic victim of one of these reckless and irresponsible drivers. I thank her mother, Dawn Nappi, for her selfless persistence to insure that other parents do not suffer the tragic loss she has endured. Her advocacy for “Angelica's Law” was compelling to our colleagues in Albany. “Angelica's Law” will provide a meaningful deterrent to the unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. The new law will reduce the number offenses by half for a felony conviction for aggravated unlicensed operation of a vehicle. I thank Governor Hochul for signing this legislation making our roads less perilous.

It's important for crime victims to feel they are not alone in their recovery. That's why I helped pass a law that removes barriers to compensation for crime victims, ensuring smoother access to benefits in their time of need (Ch. 695 of 2023).

Yesterday, I welcomed students from East Hampton High School who were selected to participate in the Angelo del Toro Puerto Rican/Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute. We discussed various law projects, and it was such a pleasure to meet everyone.

Get covered! Visit www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov to learn about and apply for low-cost, high-quality health insurance plans for you and your family. Enrollment for 2024 ends Friday, so act quickly!

Yesterday, I visited ‘San Simeon by the Sound Center for Nursing & Rehabilitation’ and met with San Simeon’s Director, Mary Kochaniwsky, and the Chairperson of the Board, Leueen Miller.  I was given an opportunity to tour the facility. I helped in securing for San Simeon, a four-million-dollar Vital Access Provider (VAP) grant from the NYS Department of Health. This grant provides operating assistance to financially distressed hospitals, nursing homes, DTCs, and CHHAs for the purpose of redesigning their healthcare delivery systems in order to assist in financial stability.

Warmest wishes to all this holiday season! May your days be merry and bright, filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments with your loved ones.

For updates on all significant Suffolk County Water Authority (SCWA) projects, community members may visit: https://www.scwa.com/water-customers/water-updates/water-main-breaks/

The overpopulation of white-tailed deer on eastern Long Island threatens public health and safety, personal property, the agricultural economy, and the environment. The Town of Southold has undertaken a community-wide effort to develop a plan to address these adverse impacts. The Town is to be commended for working on the grassroots level to develop a consensus for action consistent with the State 10-year Deer Management Plan. I was pleased to work together with the Town to draft the state legislation needed to implement the Town's plan. I commend the Governor for enacting this new law that will keep the population of deer at a sustainable level in a safe and effective manner.  I am hopeful that Southold's program will help to develop effective management tools that can be used to provide relief in other affected areas of the State.

Now more than ever, young people are facing increasingly complex challenges to their mental health. We're committed to supporting our youth and helping them overcome adversities both inside and outside the classroom. After this latest round of funding, there will be approximately 1,200 school-based clinics across the state. More information here: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-51-million-establish-school-based-mental-health-clinics

Beginning this afternoon, December 10ᵗʰ and into Monday, the forecast calls for rainfalls of two inches or more in certain areas, along with possible peak wind gusts of 45-65 mph across our area. This could potentially topple trees, bring down branches on wires and cause power outages. PSEG announces that they are prepared for potential impacts as they continue to monitor the track of the storm. Their personnel have performed system checks and crews are ready to restore power safely and as quickly as conditions permit.

Stay Informed, Stay Safe. Get all the info you need to make smart decisions and keep your family safe during power outages:

* Download the App from https://www.psegliny.com/app to report outages and receive information on restoration times, crew locations and more.

PSEG Long Island’s Customer Service:

Customers may call 1-800-490-0075 to report downed wires or power outages.

 Outage Map:

This can be found on web site at https://outagemap.psegliny.com/  and displays outages in the service territory, as well as estimated restoration times. 

MyAlerts Text Messaging:

PSEG Long Island’s text message service can be used to report and receive status updates on an outage. This requires an account number for a one-time registration, so it’s best to register before an issue arises. To register, text REG to PSEGLI (773454) or visit the "My Account" section of the website at www.psegliny.com/account. Once registered, to report an outage, simply text OUT to PSEGLI (773454).

Embracing the warmth of traditions and the glow of togetherness this Hanukkah!

Let's raise awareness and make safe choices this National Impaired Driving Prevention Month. Together, we can keep our roads safe for everyone.

Recently, I called on Governor Hochul to sign into law S.1196-A/A1673-A, which passed the Senate and Assembly in June with bipartisan support. The bill would require state-regulated health insurance plans, including Medicaid, to cover biomarker testing when supported by medical and scientific evidence.

Governor Hochul's initiative to establish school-based mental health clinics in NY is a crucial step toward supporting young people's well-being. These clinics provide accessible spaces for essential mental health support, reducing stigma and engaging students and families. The focus on high-needs districts ensures support reaches those facing economic challenges. Hochul's commitment includes substantial funding, training, and increased insurance coverage, improving access and coordination. Her efforts, including the Youth Mental Health Tour and Summit, prioritize community resources and accessibility to mental health support, recognizing the challenges young people face today. This investment sets a positive example for prioritizing youth mental health.

Exciting news from Governor Hochul! $100 million is now available for zero-emission school buses in NY. The School Bus Incentive Program supports clean energy in public schools, reducing pollution and creating healthier communities.