Hochul signs bills to help people dealing with drug addiction

Gov. Kathy Hochul signed a package of bills into law Thursday to help families and patients dealing with drug addiction.

She spoke about the loss of her nephew from addiction six years ago. He got hooked on painkillers while recovering from a workplace injury.

Hochul says these new laws work to break the stigma surrounding addiction.

"When the state of New York has the ability to take steps that can just minimize the stress that people are going through to make it easier on them and their families to let them know that there should not be stigma associated with seeking medication-assisted treatment or any other variation that you need to get yourself in order. We have to send a message we are there with you," said Hochul.

The bills will provide greater access to treatment and fewer barriers to housing and other aid programs.