Finger Lakes Today

The Governor of New York has vetoed a bill aimed at establishing a Rural Suicide Prevention Council, drawing criticism from Senator Helming. The proposed legislation, which had gained unanimous bipartisan support in both the Senate and Assembly, was intended to streamline government processes and involve citizen experts to find life-saving solutions more efficiently.

Senator Helming expressed disappointment over the veto, noting that it occurred alongside other council and task force-related bills. She emphasized the bill's importance in focusing on rural communities where the suicide rate is double that of urban areas and continues to rise significantly.

"The Governor’s veto of this bill is extremely disappointing," said Senator Helming. "This council was a means to cut through government bureaucracy and get to meaningful and potentially life-saving solutions faster."

Despite the setback, Senator Helming remains committed to addressing the increasing suicide rates in rural areas. "I will continue conversations with my colleagues in the Legislature to address this sobering data and the real-life impact to families affected by suicide," she stated.

She also extended her gratitude to constituents who advocated for the bill by contacting the Governor's office. "Thank you to my many constituents and all New Yorkers who signed letters to the Governor or called her office to urge her support of this bill," she added.