State of New York

State of New York Executive Chamber Methadone Maintenance Treatment was born in New York State more than 20 years ago. From its beginning at Rockefeller University in the early 1960s, it has matured into one of the most effective and efficient treatment for narcotic addiction.

It is the most widely used treatment for narcotic addiction in the United States, and New York State operates the most comprehensive methadone system in the Nation. Since the first investigational use of this medication to the present network of providers, New York State has provided the support needed for this effort. Today, more than 40 public and private methadone programs operate over 160 clinics which provide services to nearly 36.000 patients in this State.

Methadone Maintenance provides an opportunity to stabilize the individual addicted to opiates, to provide that person with counseling, medical attention, vocational and educational training and job opportunities so that addiction can be put in the past and a new life can begin.

The pioneering work done by Dr. Vincent Dole and Dr. Marie Nyswander in the 1960s has earned another yet important responsibility in our present world. It is perhaps the most critical tool available in our battle against the Immunodeficency Virus among intravenous drug users. We must make full use of this valuable modality as we fight the AIDS epidemic.

It is fitting that we recognize and herald the importance of Methadone Maintenance Treatment in the New York State. The significance of this field’s accomplishment grows in value as we realize that these gains have been made through the extremely hard work, commitment and dedication of individuals who have often labored under public misunderstanding and without the recognition that they so richly deserve.

Now, Therefore, I, Mario M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby proclaim November 28, 1988, as
Methadone Maintenance Treatment Day

in the New York State.

Given under my hand and the Privy Seal of the State at the Capitol in the City of Albany this twenty-second day of November in the year one thousand nine hundred and eighty-eight. By the Governor: Signed Secretary to the Governor Signed Mario M. Cuomo