Senator Thomas Fall Newsletter

Senator Kevin Thomas

November 12, 2019

Dear Neighbors,

Can you believe it's November already? In just two months, I will be heading back to Albany for the new legislative session.

As your representative, your priorities are my priorities. Long Island is a great place to live, work, and raise a family, but the high cost of living here is a challenge. When I go to Albany, I will continue to fight to keep our taxes low, ensure our schools get the funding they deserve, and support policies that keep our communities safe.

Last year, I secured record funding to support our infrastructure, transit systems, environment, and education, including a 2% permanent property tax cap that will save Long Island taxpayers billions. When I head back to Albany, I look forward to building on my record and ensuring that Long Island receives its fair share this year.

Many of you have called my District Office with ideas and feedback on issues that affect your community. I truly appreciate you taking the time to share your views with me, and encourage you to continue to stay in touch. From keeping dangerous vaping products away from our children to protecting our privacy online, my top priority is to be your voice in the Senate.

This Fall Newsletter is a glimpse into what I've been up to around the neighborhood. I hope to see you at one of the many events we have coming up this month. As always, don’t hesitate to contact my office with requests for assistance or to share your ideas and suggestions. You can always reach me at 516-739-1700 or thomas@nysenate.gov. Your input helps me to serve you better!

I look forward to seeing you around the District.

Sincerely,

Senator Kevin Thomas

Senior Health Expo 2019

I was thrilled to host my first Senior Health Expo this year at the St. Paul's Field House in Garden City on October 2. We had 125 vendors, over 350 attendees, and our wonderful volunteer nurses administered over 150 flu shots throughout the day! Our volunteers and staff put a lot of work and energy into coordinating this important community event. I had a great time meeting with residents and health care providers. Thank you to everyone who made the event a success, and I am looking forward to next year.

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Addressing Vaping & E-Cigarettes in our Schools

Vaping is a serious public health concern that has reached epidemic proportions in our schools.These products are being branded as 'less deadly' than cigarettes and marketed directly to our children. As Chair of the Consumer Protection Committee, my top priority is to protect our children from unregulated, unsafe, and potentially dangerous products. On November 4, I held a Public Hearing with fellow lawmakers, public health officials, and school Superintendents to examine the dangers of e-cigarettes and develop legislative solutions to keep these products out of our schools. I have also introduced legislation that aims to ban refillable e-liquid vaping products. Addressing this public health issue will be a priority for me when I head back to Albany in January.

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Mobile Legal Help Center at Uniondale Library

After bringing the Mobile Van to Hempstead in July, I once again partnered with the New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG) to bring the Mobile Legal Help Center van to Uniondale Public Library. Attorneys and staff onboard the van provided free legal assistance for residents in areas such as foreclosure, tenants rights, and family law. We were able to help over 20 residents who stopped by throughout the day.

Upcoming Events

11/16/19 - Financial Aid Information Session

11/17/19 - Free Medicare Seminar

11/19 - Enough Abuse: 90-Minute Workshop to Protect Against Child Abuse

11/19 - Know Your Rights Student Loan Q&A @Hofstra U

#PicsOfTheSixth Photo Contest

I am thrilled to officially announce the “Pics of the Sixth” photo contest! High School Students (Grades 9-12) are invited to submit photos that reflect the unique character of their town and celebrate their community. There are five contest categories: Buildings & Landmarks, Hobbies & Passions, Life on the Island, Happiness, and Celebrating Culture. Winners will be recognized and have their work displayed in my District Office and on this website.

Learn more by clicking here.

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Legislative News

In order to promote local coverage, I introduced a bill requiring cable companies to offer independent local news. Read the New York Times article here.

I recently met with Hempstead School Board and State Officials to review S6559 and develop a plan for the District's long-term success. Read more here.

The SHIELD Act, which I sponsored, was recently signed into law. Learn more about what this law means for the New York business community here.

I earned a perfect legislative score from EPL/Environmental Advocates for my strong environmental record in Albany this year. Read more here.

New York State recently passed my bill that prevents car leasing companies from taking advantage of grieving families. Read my column on the new law.