Assemblyman Joseph Angelino (R,C,I-Norwich), along with Sen. Fred Akshar, Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo and Binghamton Mayor Rich David came together on Saturday, June 5 to call on the governor to sign into law legislation passed unanimously by the Senate and Assembly to allow medevac helicopters to carry life-saving blood to treat patients as they are transported to hospitals.

Also at the press conference held at Mirabito Stadium was Travis Flangan, who was the inspiration for getting the bill fast-tracked through both houses of the Legislature. Travis Flanagan survived a life-threatening farming accident in March 2021 in Smithville. Firefighters and EMTs worked for hours to free Flanagan from a piece of farm machinery. Due to the seriousness of his injuries, a medical helicopter was requested to transport Travis to Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse.Fortunately, the helicopter that accepted the mission was based in Pennsylvania where blood is carried routinely on medical aircraft.

"Had the helicopter been one based in New York state, this situation may have turned out differently," said Angelino. "New York is the last state in the nation that doesn't allow medical helicopters to carry blood. Medevac helicopters are critical in emergency medical care throughout New York, especially in our rural communities. Carrying blood on board is essential for patients. Travis’ bravery inspired us. I am proud to partner with my colleagues across the aisle to sponsor and pass this legislation. Now we need the governor to sign this into law."

LifeNet from Sidney also generously participated in the press conference by providing one of their helicopters on site.