West Hudson Valley News

On Thursday, May 9, Assemblyman Brian Maher and Town of Crawford Supervisor Charles E. Carnes hosted a roundtable discussion titled "Finding Hope" in Pine Bush. The discussion focused on the overdose crisis that is impacting communities throughout the Hudson Valley and across New York state. They were joined by several notable figures including Family Court Judge Christine Krahulik, District Attorney David M. Hoovler, District 4 Legislator Robert Sassi of Orange County, and Pine Bush Superintendent Brian Dunn.

The group comprised of peer recovery specialists, treatment specialists, prevention specialists, and individuals in recovery. They discussed strategies to better engage and educate students about the dangers of drug use, new developments in the fight against addictions that policymakers may not be aware of, and persistent issues that require attention.

Assemblyman Maher commented on the severity of drug use disorders and overdoses in New York state but expressed optimism due to the efforts made by treatment providers, advocates, and those in recovery. He said: “It can be overwhelming to look at the magnitude of drug use disorders and overdoses in New York state, but I am hopeful because of all the work treatment providers, advocates and those in recovery are doing to turn the tide."

Maher also emphasized the importance of working with students more acutely to educate them about drugs or what actions to take if they know someone facing an overdose. As a member of the Assembly Committee on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse, he expressed his intention to develop legislation to support those combating opioids and overdoses.

Alayne Eisloffel from Tri-County Prevention Coalition praised the collaborative effort saying: “Tri-County Prevention Coalition is honored to be part of this important discussion about the opioid and fentanyl crisis...We look forward to continuing the conversation to effect real, long-lasting change in our communities.”

Jody Nicoli who is in recovery herself said: "I thought the breakout sessions made this roundtable discussion very unique and productive...By discussing lingering issues, new issues that need to be addressed and how to educate students and families better we really tackled every aspect of this multi-faceted issue."

The discussion also touched upon the alarming increase in opioid overdose deaths in New York, which rose by 351% from 2010 to 2021 according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Maher suggested additional actions such as increasing the availability and coverage of rehabilitation, providing better support to law enforcement to target drug manufacturers and dealers, including those who illegally distribute fentanyl, and addressing xylazine.