Assembly Resolution No. 658

BY: M. of A. Lunsford

MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 26, 2023, as Heat Awareness Day in the State of New York

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize official days that are set aside to increase awareness of serious issues which affect the lives of citizens of New York State; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 26, 2023, as Heat Awareness Day in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance of National Heat Awareness Day; and

WHEREAS, National Heat Awareness Day is observed each year on the last Friday in May to highlight the numerous health problems and fatalities caused each year by exposure to excessive heat, one of the leading weather-related killers in the United States; and

WHEREAS, Over the years, massive temperature rises have resulted in a multitude of deaths including the over 600 people who died in Oregon and Washington over one week in June 2021; and

WHEREAS, The number of heat-related fatalities has risen in the last 30 years due to higher temperatures from climate change; and

WHEREAS, Tim Barber, a healthy 35-year old, died from heat stress and heat exhaustion on his second day working on a construction jobsite in Geneseo on a sweltering afternoon in July 2020 with temperatures in the mid-90s; and

WHEREAS, The National Weather Service issues a number of advisories during times of high temperatures including Excessive Heat Outlooks, Excessive Heat Watches, and Excessive Heat Warnings/Advisories; and

WHEREAS, Heat-related illnesses are preventable; New Yorkers can take such precautions as staying hydrated and avoiding alcohol and caffeinated drinks, as well as avoiding over-exertion and finding a cool place to stay indoors; furthermore, employers should accommodate these precautions; and

WHEREAS, It is imperative that there be greater awareness of this important issue, and more must be done to increase activity at the local, State and National levels; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim May 26, 2023, as Heat Awareness Day in the State of New York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New York; and the family of Tim Barber.