We respectfully ask that Governor Hochul sign Senate Bill S.8945 and Assembly Bill A.10149 into law.

As a New York City Probation professional, we have dedicated my career to protecting the public while helping individuals rebuild their lives. Every day, my colleagues and I supervise people involved in the criminal justice system, conduct home and community visits, prepare court reports, respond to crises, and work with individuals who may be violent, mentally ill, or struggling with addiction. These responsibilities expose us to extraordinary stress that most New Yorkers never see.

Our profession serves as a bridge between the courts, law enforcement, treatment providers, victims, and the communities we serve. We are expected to make critical decisions that protect public safety while promoting rehabilitation and accountability.

The physical effects of chronic occupational stress are well documented. Yet New York City Probation Officers, Supervising Probation Officers, Probation Officer Trainees, and the professionals who support this work continue to perform these duties without the same heart disease protections provided to many other public safety employees.

S.8945/A.10149 would recognize that reality by establishing a heart disease presumption for qualifying New York City Probation Officers, Supervising Probation Officers, and Probation Officer Trainees who meet the statutory requirements.

This legislation is about fairness. It recognizes the sacrifices made by the men and women who protect New Yorkers every day and provides peace of mind that if our work contributes to a serious heart condition, our families will not bear that burden alone.

Governor Hochul, we respectfully ask that you stand with the dedicated public servants who work tirelessly to keep our communities safe. Please sign S.8945 /A10149 into law.

Thank you for your consideration and your continued commitment to the people of New York.