“In recent years, New York State has experienced a frightening increase in opioid use in both its street and prescription forms. Heroin, in particular, is emerging as a public health concern in every community. Recent legislative laws such as I-STOP and the repeal of the Rockefeller Drug Laws also may be contributing factors.

“Its rise is especially alarming in our state’s smaller urban, suburban and rural areas. The increase in heroin use largely involves young people who have turned to the drug because of its relatively low cost and high accessibility.

“This legislation will build off of existing laws to help fight the growing heroin epidemic. The legislative package includes new programs and insurance reforms to improve treatment options for individuals suffering from heroin and opioid addiction; measures to strengthen penalties and put in place additional tools for law enforcement to crack down on the distribution of illegal drugs; and support for enhanced public awareness campaigns to prevent drug abuse.”