Declare Prevention Week Statewide

Assembly Resolution No. 445 BY: M. of A. Rosenthal L MEMORIALIZING Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim May 14-20, 2017, as Prevention Week in New York State, in conjunction with the observance of National Prevention Week WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize official weeks set aside to increase awareness of serious issues which affect the lives of citizens of New York State; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, it is the sense of this Legislative Body to memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim May 14-20, 2017, as Prevention Week in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance of National Prevention Week; and WHEREAS, The theme of National Prevention Week 2017 is "Making Each Day Count"; and WHEREAS, This annual health observance is dedicated to increasing public awareness of and action around substance abuse, problem gambling and mental health issues; and WHEREAS, Recognition of this annual designation helps to encourage communities to raise awareness about substance abuse, problem gambling and mental health issues; foster partnerships and collaborations with organizations dedicated to preventing substance abuse, problem gambling and mental health issues; and promote and disseminate prevention resources; and WHEREAS, The 2017 Daily Health Themes include: Prevention of Youth Tobacco Use: Monday, May 15; Prevention of Underage Drinking & Alcohol Misuse: Tuesday, May 16; Prevention of Prescription & Opioid Drug Misuse: Wednesday, May 17; Prevention of Illicit Drug Use & Youth Marijuana Use: Thursday, May 18; Prevention of Suicide: Friday, May 19; and Promotion of Mental Health & Wellness: Saturday, May 20; and WHEREAS, Schools and local communities are also encouraged to take part in prevention themed events prior to the end of the school year to help raise awareness about the potential harms of substance use and abuse among students of all ages; and WHEREAS, Through this observance, this Legislative Body also recognizes substance abuse prevention providers throughout New York State and their important work in reducing the risks associated with substance abuse and problem gambling disorders and their dedication to prevention efforts along these lines; and WHEREAS, Furthermore, the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services offers important information, tips, and resources to help parents, schools, and members of the community keep young people safe from alcohol, drugs and problem gambling through initiatives such as its Talk2Prevent, and Combat Heroin and Prescription Drug Abuse campaigns and websites; and WHEREAS, All New Yorkers are encouraged to join in supporting the goal to keep all young people and young adults healthy, safe, and drug and alcohol and gambling free; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim May 14-20, 2017, as Prevention Week in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance of National Prevention Week; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New York.