Galef's New Law Creates Commission to Study Child Abuse

State Senator Martin J. Golden and Assemblywoman Sandy Galef today announced that Governor Andrew Cuomo has signed into law S.233A/A.5769A, that will establish a temporary New York State Commission to study child abuse prevention and make recommendations for the implementation of child abuse prevention programs in New York State.

“I am proud to have worked with my colleague, Assemblywoman Sandy Galef, to sponsor this legislation which is now New York State Law. I thank Governor Andrew Cuomo for signing this bill because New York State must take a stand against child abuse and increase prevention opportunities. There is no place in our homes, schools or society for child abuse, and the unfortunate reality is that it is happening all too often in New York. We must truly examine and figure out how to stop this violence that is destroying too many children reverse this trend that is damaging many families,” said Senator Marty Golden.

"Every time we hear, read or experience a child abuse situation, we are all appalled at how this tragedy could happen. We must do even more in New York State to stop child abuse in our families and communities. It was my honor to work with Senator Golden to have a law passed to establish a commission to study child abuse and advance child abuse prevention progress in our state", stated Assemblywoman Sandy Galef.

Child abuse prevention programs not only address child abuse prevention but other aspects of family dynamics that threaten child and family well-being. These threats include preventable health conditions such as low birth weight, infant mortality, drug-addicted babies and more. These programs often provide referrals, education, expertise and stability for at-risk families. Some of the programs offered also focus on training for new parents.

Child abuse and neglect has been rising across New York State and more resources are being expended to treat the consequences including incarceration, court costs, foster care and more. A study by Prevent Child Abuse New York estimated these costs to be approximately $2.4 billion each year, while the amount spent on primary prevention is more than $30 million.

Prevention programs, while proven effective, are currently only available to a small number of families at risk of abuse and neglect. Home visitations are only available to about 10% to 14% of eligible families. The temporary Commission would study the availability of successful prevention programs and recommend to the Governor and the State Legislature the most appropriate ways to increase the availability of these services to more at risk families.

Senator Golden continued, “Reports indicate that there are approximately 80,000 children found to be victims of child abuse and maltreated in New York State each year. This Commission must get to work so that we can prevent the abuse of children and save families in our State.”