As Chair of the Assembly Committee on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse, I am committed to addressing the alarming rise in gambling addiction and will continue to advocate for common sense proposals to confront this issue.

I have also introduced legislation that would require all insurance companies to cover outpatient gambling treatment (A8518). It is imperative that as a state, we ensure that everyone who seeks treatment for a gambling addiction can be covered by their insurance and receive the care they need.

Due to this, I have introduced common sense legislation to ban sports betting advertisements during live sporting events (A8925). In 2019, Italy enacted a similar policy after seeing a dramatic rise in gambling addiction rates. Since it took effect, their rates of problem gambling have decreased.

A great visit and an energizing reminder of the value of global connections and the power of public service.

To top it off, I was able to reconnect with an old friend from my University of Pennsylvania Law School days, Gerard Hogan, who now serves on the Supreme Court of Ireland. It was wonderful to catch up and reflect on our time at Penn and the paths our careers have taken.

I also had the honor of meeting with Geraldine Byrne Nason, Ireland’s Ambassador to the United States. Her leadership and perspective made the visit even more meaningful.

Whether it’s advocating for safer neighborhoods, supporting local programs that protect kids, or simply staying informed, every effort makes a difference.

Thank you to the parents, caregivers, teachers, and child advocates who work every day to ensure our children grow up in a safe environment.

A new law is now in effect expanding the Residential Redevelopment Inhibited Property Exemption statewide, encouraging investment in affordable housing while transforming vacant and abandoned properties into vibrant homes where families can grow and thrive (Ch. 434 of 2025).

I also want to thank Guilderland Supervisor Peter Barber and his team for joining us today, and to recognize the Town Hall employees who donated two trunks worth of food, which is a powerful reminder of how much this community steps up for one another.

The Guilderland Food Pantry continues to meet rising demand with dedication and compassion, and I am proud to support their work in our community. Thank you to Mac McDonnell, the staff, and the many volunteers who make this pantry a lifeline for so many families.

That makes strong support for our local food pantries more important than ever. This funding will help the pantry expand its School Backpack Program, provide holiday meal packages, and keep shelves stocked for anyone who needs assistance.

A representative from my office will be available to assist with unemployment, SNAP, housing, or other state-related concerns.

📍 Woodlawn Branch Library
🕛 Tuesday, Nov. 18 | 12–3 PM

We look forward to seeing you then!

Later this afternoon, I will join veterans and fellow elected officials aboard the USS Slater to recognize and thank those who have served. To all veterans, thank you for your service and all that you continue to do for our country.

People deserve to know what they’re putting into their bodies.

Thank you to Spectrum News for highlighting this important issue and helping to raise awareness. You can learn more about the legislation and the growing push for regulation below.

spectrumlocalnews.com/nys/central-...

If you own or operate a small business, I encourage you to take a few minutes to share your experience and insights. Your input will help inform upcoming legislative priorities and state programs designed to support small businesses like yours.

Take the survey here: nyassembly.gov/mem/Marianne...