“Every day, the men and women of law enforcement put on their uniforms and leave the comfort of their families to protect and serve our communities. National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day is a time to show that we appreciate their sacrifice and stand with them as they work to make our communities safe and secure.

“I am incredibly proud to have secured $1.5 million for local first responders, including funding for the Colonie Police Mobile Operations Center and the John F. Finn Institute for Public Safety. These grants ensure our local law enforcement has the funding to protect our communities and create community trust-building initiatives.

“At the end of 2022, the Governor signed my bill into law that will close a decade-long loophole allowing four veteran police officers in Niskayuna to be placed on the correct retirement plan that they are entitled to. My legislation will also allow the town to pay past service costs for these officers.

“I encourage every New Yorker to show their appreciation to the brave men and women by writing to your local police department to thank them, thank an officer you see on the street, and share a story about a positive law enforcement experience on social media with the hashtag #LEAD2023