Senator Lee M. Zeldin (R-C-I, Shirley) today announced funding for the continuation and expansion of the PFC Joseph Dwyer PTSD Peer-to-Peer Veterans Counseling program in the just passed 2013-14 state budget.

A top priority for Senator Zeldin since first being elected, the Dwyer Program provides “peer-to-peer” counseling between veterans who personally understand the effects of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Since its inception in last year’s budget, the program has been operating successfully in four test counties: Suffolk, Rensselaer, Saratoga and Jefferson. At Senator Zeldin’s request, this innovative direct counseling program will now be funded again for Suffolk County veterans, those in the other test counties, as well as for veterans in seven additional counties: Nassau, Erie, Onondaga, Orange, Putnam, Rockland and Westchester.

“This is a huge a win for our veterans,” said Senator Zeldin, a Major in the U.S. Army Reserves. “Countless veterans have already benefitted from this excellent program and now even more will have access to this service. I want to thank all of my Senate colleagues who joined me in the fight to ensure that this critical funding was included in this year’s state budget. Their support was instrumental in this effort and will greatly assist our troops who have served our country honorably and are now struggling to make the adjustment back into day-to-day life.”

Senate Republican Leader Dean G. Skelos (R, Rockville Centre) said, “As New York’s veterans worked courageously to protect our freedom, many have faced physical and mental traumas that will last with them long after they return home. The expansion of the PFC Joseph Dwyer PTSD Peer-to-Peer Counseling Program will provide an outlet for Nassau’s veterans to share their experience and facilitate healing so that our bravest service members can receive the understanding and care they deserve.”

Independent Democratic Conference Leader Jeff Klein (D-Bronx/Westchester) said, “Since its inception, the PFC Joseph Dwyer PTSD Peer-to-Peer Veterans Counseling program has proven extraordinarily effective at providing top-notch care for our state’s returning heroes. These brave men and women deserve innovative, fully-funded treatment initiatives that provide the type of attention, care, and results that the Dwyer program is already producing. I’m pleased that this budget package expands this great program into Westchester County, where I personally know dozens of veterans who will make good use of this program’s resources.”

“We must ensure that our veterans are afforded every opportunity to succeed and grow upon returning from defending our nation,” said Senator Kenneth P. LaValle (R-C-I, Port Jefferson). “They did their job overseas, now we must do ours by providing them with the services they need here at home.”

Senator David Carlucci (D-Rockland), Chairman of the Senate’s Mental Health Committee, said, “When it comes to treating veterans with PTSD, it’s clear that we need to continue investing in novel approaches that deliver positive results. The PFC Joseph Dwyer PTSD Peer-to-Peer Veterans Counseling program is exactly that type of initiative. By providing counseling services from a brother or sister in arms, the Dwyer program breaks down barriers between counselor and patient and provides the type of care that many veterans truly need. I’m pleased that we’re bringing this program to Rockland County, where I know that many of the region’s veterans and families will benefit.”

“I’m pleased that the Joseph Dwyer PTSD Peer-to-Peer Veterans Counseling Program will be expanded into Nassau County,” said Senator Kemp Hannon (R-Nassau). “There are thousands of returning veterans who suffer from PTSD and Traumatic Brain Injury, and they deserve no less than our full attention, care and support. I thank Senator Zeldin for his efforts, and join with him in expressing our commitment to providing our servicemen and women with the support services they need to readjust to civilian life back home.”

“Our brave veterans have sacrificed their families and lives to protect our freedoms,” said Senator John Flanagan (R-C-I, East Northport). “We owe them a debt of gratitude and support upon their return from serving this great country. I want to thank Senator Zeldin for his constant efforts on behalf of all New York veterans, and join him in supporting the continuation and expansion of this critically important peer counseling program. The program has already proven to be a great success for so many Suffolk County veterans by easing their transition from military to civilian life. Now the program will be available to even more of our military heroes throughout New York State.”

“Our veterans put everything on the line to protect our freedom and defend our Nation. We owe it to them to provide the best services and support programs when they come home. I am pleased that our Nassau and Suffolk County veterans will have access to the PFC Joseph Dwyer PTSD Peer-to-Peer Veterans Counseling Program. As these veterans struggle to adjust to life back at home, we will stand with them, honor their sacrifice and help them heal,” said Senator Carl L. Marcellino (R-Syosset).

“Expanding the Dwyer program will help ensure that veterans affected by PTSD and traumatic brain injury will have greater access to the care they need. Our troops bravely risk their lives on the battlefield to protect us. Their lives should not be at risk again because they could not get the necessary care when they return home. This is an innovative and invaluable service which will now be able to help even more of our American heroes in their time of need,” said Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. (R-Merrick).

“When our men and women return home, unfortunately they bring with them the lasting effects of combat including traumatic brain injury. Peer counseling has been successful in helping ease their transition into their communities as they come home. I fully support not only continuing the program, but expanding it. Our veterans deserve nothing less,” said Senator Jack M. Martins (R-C-I, Mineola).

Senator Phil Boyle (R-C-I, Bay Shore) said, “Combat Veterans have given our great nation their dedicated service to protect our freedom. By providing continued funding for the Joseph Dwyer Veterans Counseling Program, I hope that New York State can make a small payment on the immeasurable debt we owe them for their sacrifices.”

Senator David Valesky (D-Onondaga/Oneida) said, “I’m pleased that this year’s budget package addresses the needs of veterans statewide, by funding extraordinary and proven programs such as the PFC Joseph Dwyer PTSD Peer-to-Peer Veterans Counseling initiative. When our country’s bravest men and women return home, I think it’s incumbent upon us as legislators to provide them with the best possible mental health resources. Expanding this program into Onondanga County will help countless veterans and their families overcome the hardships that come with a condition as serious as PTSD. That’s why I’m proud to support it.”

“This past Tuesday, March 19, marked the 10-year anniversary of Operation Iraqi Freedom and was a solemn reminder of the countless personal sacrifices America’s veterans have made, and continue making, in the preservation of liberty and the defense of our nation. With thousands of veterans suffering from the effects of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), we have a moral obligation to help New York’s heroes overcome these serious challenges. One of my top legislative priorities this year has been a continuation, and expansion, of the PFC Joseph Dwyer PTSD Peer-to-Peer Veterans Counseling Program in the 2013-14 State Budget so we can help all of our veterans receive the care and services they need. I am proud to have been part of the successful effort to maintain and increase this necessary funding. The PFC Joseph Dwyer PTSD Peer-to-Peer Veterans Counseling Program has already made a positive difference for Rensselaer and Saratoga veterans and its expansion into more counties will further assist New York’s veterans and their families affected by PTSD and TBI. The men and women of our armed forces have made the world a safer and better place. Our words of thanks are not enough – we need to match our words with a sustained commitment of funding for veterans support services that I was honored to help secure,” said Senator Kathleen A. Marchione (R,C-Halfmoon).

“Our veterans make so many sacrifices to defend our country and our freedom,” said Senator Patty Ritchie (R-C Heuvelton). “Because they have given so much, it’s imperative to have resources available that will enable them to cope with the transition into civilian life. The PFC Joseph Dwyer Peer Support Program has already been a tremendous success in Jefferson County and has been an exceptional asset given our close proximity to Ft. Drum and the tens of thousands soldiers and veterans who call our region ‘home’. I am thrilled to see that it will be able to continue and expand to provide a much-needed service to our brave veterans.”

“With the rising number of returning veterans suffering from ailments like traumatic brain injury, we must do everything in our power to give our returning troops the services and programs that they need,” said Senator Greg Ball, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs. “The expansion of the Dwyer program to Putnam, Westchester and five other counties in the state will allow even more veterans to receive these services to help them transition back into civilian life.”

Senator Bill Larkin (R-C-I, Cornwall-on-Hudson) said, “The PFC Joseph Dwyer PTSD Peer-to-Peer Counseling Program is an outstanding resource for our veterans and I am pleased that it will now be expanded to Orange County. It means so much to our veterans, particularly returning veterans, to be able to speak with someone who has been through what they have been through and who can provide timely counseling and assistance when they need it the most. This program does just that and I am grateful that additional veterans will have access to these valuable services.”

Senator Mark J. Grisanti (R,I-60) said, “Since the founding of this great country, our veterans have been the backbone for our freedoms. In this day, we now know more about the physical and especially the mental toll serving in our Armed Forces has on the individual. When our veterans return home we need programs like the PFC Joseph Dwyer PTSD Peer to Peer Counseling Program set up in our counties to ensure that every veteran who needs access to help has that access as readily available as possible.”

Senator Michael H. Ranzenhofer (R-C-I, Amherst) said, “We know that many of our returning service members can experience nightmares, flashbacks, difficulty sleeping, and feeling detached when they come home and try to go back to their previous routines and lives. Now that the PFC Joseph Dwyer PTSD Peer-to-Peer Counseling Program has been enacted as part of the 2013-14 State Budget, these veterans will be provided with a way to discuss day-to-day problems with other veterans who have been through the same kind of trauma. It gives veterans a sense of connection to other people again and helps them cope with difficult memories. It will now be an added resource for any veteran in Erie County who wishes to use it.”

“We are learning more and more every day; that for the brave men and women who serve this country, the battle doesn’t end when they return home to American soil. For many, the psychological and emotional impacts of war have long lasting and devastating effects on their mental health and their ability to lead well-adjusted lives. The PFC Joseph Dwyer PTSD Peer-to-Peer Counseling Program has made great strides for New York’s veterans dealing with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and I am excited to see this valuable program expanded to Western New York and across the state,” said Senator Patrick M. Gallivan (R-C-I, Elma).

Federal Veterans Administration statistics show that up to 20 percent of Iraq and Afghan war veterans, 10 percent of Gulf War (Desert Storm), and 30 percent of Vietnam veterans experience PTSD.

State Senator Lee M. Zeldin (R-C-I, Shirley) today announced that the Senate has passed the portion of the State Budget that permanently eliminates the Saltwater Fishing License Fee.

“The elimination of the Saltwater Fishing License Fee was one of many important priorities for me since taking office in 2011,” said Senator Zeldin. “The three year moratorium we secured in the 2011-2012 budget was a big victory for all Long Islanders, but there is no better to build on that success than to permanently eliminate the fee in this year’s budget. I am very grateful that Governor Cuomo included the elimination of this fee in his 30 Day Executive Budget Amendment.”

Earlier this year, Senator Zeldin and Assemblyman Thiele introduced legislation to permanently eliminate the Salt Water Fishing License Fee (S3709/A4838). The elimination of the Fee is part of a larger budget bill (S.2608-D) that also simplifies, consolidates and reduces the prices of hunting and other fishing licenses.

“I would like to thank not only my Senate colleagues who have worked with me on this goal, but I would also like to thank the thousands of fishermen, including the Recreational Fishing Alliance, NY Sportfishing Federation and Captree Boatmen’s Association, who called, wrote, faxed and signed our petition,” continued Senator Zeldin. “I also commend Assemblyman Fred Thiele who took the lead in the State Assembly to ensure that the fee was eliminated in this year’s budget.”

Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele, Jr. (I-D-WF, Sag Harbor) stated, “Fishing in our local oceans, and bays is considered a birth right by our residents that goes back to colonial times. Recreational fishing is a critical sector in New York State’s economy. Recreational marine fishing in New York creates $812 million in sales, directly supports 5,365 jobs, provides $424 million in value-added economic impact, and $126 million in tax revenue, according to a 2006 National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) study. Permanent repeal of the saltwater fishing license eliminates this unnecessary burden on this important economic engine as we recover from the worst recession in decades. This is a major victory for Long Island.”

“Recreational and commercial saltwater fishing is one of the many great treasures of Long Island,” concluded Senator Zeldin. “It’s part of our history, and for many, it’s a primary reason why we live here. This is a big win for Long Island’s saltwater fishermen.”

Senator Zeldin will be hosting an event with local saltwater fishermen to commemorate the elimination of the Saltwater Fishing License Fee at the start of the upcoming 2013 fishing season.

In an effort to build on the achievements of the PFC Joseph Dwyer PTSD Peer-to-Peer Veterans Counseling Program, Senator Lee M. Zeldin (R-C-I, Shirley) successfully pushed for language in the State Senate’s Budget Resolution revealed this week that begins the process to continue and potentially expand this meaningful program.

At Senator Zeldin’s request, the Dwyer program became a first-time Senate initiative included in the 2012-13 State Budget that has seen rapid success. Over the past year, innovative direct counseling programs have been established for veterans in four test counties: Suffolk, Rensselaer, Saratoga and Jefferson. Recognizing PTSD statistics on returning Iraq and Afghan war veterans, Zeldin says the need for expansion of these services to more regions of the state is clear. He has proposed establishing the Dwyer program in six other counties, including Nassau County.

In addition, nine other state senators have joined Senator Zeldin in this effort and have signed a joint letter authored by Senator Zeldin to Senate leadership in support of this funding. “I am very pleased to have the bipartisan support of my colleagues, Senators David Carlucci, Greg Ball, Bill Larkin, Kathy Marchione, Patty Ritchie, John DeFrancisco, Mike Ranzenhofer, Mark Grisanti and Patrick Gallivan as we push for the Dwyer program,” said Senator Zeldin.

“The counseling is free of charge and provided to veterans from other veterans who personally understand what it’s like to cope with and overcome the psychological trauma experienced during intense armed conflict,” added Senator Zeldin, a Major in the U.S. Army Reserves. “The veterans offering the counseling are trained and guided by professional therapists and facilitators and are truly helping their fellow veterans make the necessary adjustments back into day-to-day life here in the U.S.”

Senator Zeldin concluded, “Being able to get language into the State Senate’s Budget Resolution that acknowledges the Dwyer program is an important step in the process of feasibly securing funding again when we begin budget negotiations and deliberations. I am extremely hopeful that when the State Budget is finalized next week, the Legislature and Governor will approve the funding to maintain and expand this very worthy program.”

The sport has the fastest growing fan base of any sport in the world. In America, 47 states allow professional MMA matches including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, California and Florida. The most notable of the professional MMA leagues, the Ultimate Fighting Championship, is also the most heavily regulated.

A 2008 study reported that a UFC event in New York City would generate $11.5 million in new net economic activity: $5.3 million in direct event spending, $1.4 million in non-lodging visitor spending, and $4.9 million in indirect/induced benefits. UFC events would produce substantial employee compensation: UFC events require over 300 staff working the event, equivalent to the creation of 88 full-time local jobs per event. The 2008 study found that a UFC event in Buffalo would generate $1.7 million in direct event spending, $1.4 million in visitor spending, $2.1 million in indirect/induced benefits.

Sign this petition today to tell Assembly Speaker Silver to “Pass MMA Now”!

“As a parent of two beautiful first graders, I pray to god that it’s

them burying me one day   No father or mother should ever have to bury
their son or daughter.

Today we gather on the Capitol steps here in Albany as patriots,
Americans united for freedom and liberty… Willing to go great
lengths to defend our constitution and the inalienable rights in that
sacred doctrine including the second amendments right to keep and bear arms.

There are no problems we face here today…only challenges and opportunity.

I believe in our nation.  I believe in our republic. I have and
continue to be willing to lay down my life in protection of everything
which makes our country great.

I love the United States of America and that is nothing for any of us
to ever apologize for.

United today in the cause of liberty, I commit to you to stand with
you fighting for the rights of law abiding citizens and fighting for
the safety And security of our families.

Your individual liberties are my cause to defend, your patriotism is
my cause to admire, and our constitution is our cause to Unite at this
capitol today

Let right prevail. Let our rights prevail. From this day through our
last, let everything our founding fathers fought for be remembered,
honored and defended.”

“The salt water fishing license fee should have never been passed in the first place. I fought hard immediately upon taking office in January 2011 to secure a three-year moratorium in the 2011-2012 state budget. Long Island’s recreational fishing industry benefits as a result of a more friendly culture in Albany. As Governor Cuomo said at a Freeport press event in August of 2011, some things in life should be free and salt water fishing is one of them. This year, I introduced legislation with Assemblyman Fred Thiele to permanently eliminate the salt water fishing license fee. I commend the Governor for his leadership on this issue and for including an elimination of the fee in this year’s state budget. This is a very positive action on behalf of Long Island fishermen.”

In our Constitution are certain rights which provide the foundation of America’s greatness. Its Second Amendment in no uncertain terms guarantees the right of law abiding citizens to keep and bear arms. Its purpose was not so much about hunting as it was for a deeper and much more important consideration of our founding fathers. The inspiration for this protection rose out of a fundamental mistrust of government. I believe our Constitution should be strictly construed in a manner consistent with the intent of our nation’s founding fathers. Agree or disagree with how good or bad government is today, this was a primary purpose why the Second Amendment was created and why it should be respected and adhered to still today.

The actions government takes to protect its citizens through gun laws must strike the right balance of targeting illegal guns and the criminals who use them without eroding the basic protections of the 2nd Amendment for law abiding gun owners. If there was some common sense solution to take away every illegal gun from criminals without disarming law abiding gun owners, I would be all for it.

Respectfully, I don’t believe that the gun package tonight strikes the proper balance and therefore I do not support it. I am currently in Virginia on Army Reserve duty for two weeks of mandatory military training. Had I been able to be present to vote, I would have voted against it.

There are a lot of good elements in this bill from expanding Kendra’s Law to increasing many penalties related to the use and possession of illegal guns. I commend my Republican colleagues who fought so hard to add these positive aspects. We must also strengthen enforcement of our current laws which are already some of the strongest in the nation.

Moving forward, public safety must always be a top priority. This debate should be even more focused on targeting illegal guns and providing maximum assistance to New Yorkers with mental illnesses in order to most directly avoid another tragedy like Newtown. Our focus as a state and nation has to be on providing people in need of mental health care more access to help. Society as a whole also needs to better understand mental illness and develop improved means of detecting potential violence long before it can become a threat to anyone else.

As the State Senator from the Third District of New York, I have a responsibility to weigh the views of my constituents, our concerns for their safety as well as their constitutionally protected rights.

Our great nation was founded on the idea that all people have certain inalienable rights. Our founding fathers understood that these rights were not granted by the government and therefore, shall not be removed by it either.”