Assemblyman Al Stirpe (D-Cicero) announced that he has introduced legislation to address the growing heroin and opioid epidemic in New York State. The bill (A.9211), carried in the state senate by Sen. Patty Ritchie (R), would require insurance companies to cover at least 90 days of treatment at an inpatient rehabilitation facility for patients with a doctor’s prescription.

“Heroin and opioid addiction is devastating our communities and it’s vital that we do all we can to ensure that proper treatment is available,” said Assemblyman Stirpe. “This legislation would allow patients the opportunity to fully recover from their addiction, helping to end the cycle of abuse once and for all.”

Currently, New York State law requires coverage at an inpatient facility, but doesn’t establish a minimum amount of time. In 2015, opioid deaths in Onondaga County increased by nearly 19 percent from the previous year, highlighting the severity of the problem and the need for comprehensive treatment.

Stirpe noted that the growing addiction problem isn’t limited to cities, as there have been many reports of overdoses in suburban areas like Cicero, Clay and Manlius.

“We can’t ignore addiction – it’s on the rise and it’s affecting people of all ages right here in our backyard,” Assemblyman Stirpe said. “My legislation will help save lives and combat the scourge of heroin and opioid abuse.”