Inside Government with PoliticsNY: A Q&A with Assembly Member Al Taylor

"Elijah's Law (S.218B/A.6971B): signed in 2019, mandates that New York child day care programs follow specific guidelines for preventing and responding to severe food allergy reactions. Named after Elijah Silvera, a 3-year-old who tragically died from anaphylaxis after being given a grilled cheese sandwich at daycare, despite the facility being informed of his severe dairy allergy. This law requires child care facilities to implement policies for anaphylaxis prevention to reduce exposure to allergens."

"As your New York State assembly member, I believe in the power of direct, one-on-one interaction with constituents. Whether it's helping with housing issues, addressing safety concerns, or advocating for education, I am here to listen and support day-to-day. When I can't provide direct help, my office works with other elected officials, community boards, and local organizations to ensure you receive the assistance you need. Your concerns matter, and I'm committed to being there for you."

"Manhattan's biggest crisis is its housing affordability - sky‑high rents, shrinking rent‑stabilized stock, and a severe housing shortage forcing many to spend over half their income on shelter. As a New York State assemblyman I plan on collaborating with City and state leaders to pass reform and expand affordable housing and support rental assistance like Housing Access Vouchers to cap burdens,"

Assembly Member Al Taylor represents the 71st Assembly District in Manhattan, including Harlem, Washington Heights, and Inwood. Elijah's Law, signed in 2019, mandates that New York child day care programs follow specific guidelines for preventing and responding to severe food allergy reactions and requires child care facilities to implement anaphylaxis prevention policies. Taylor emphasizes direct, one-on-one interaction with constituents and provides assistance with housing, safety, and education while coordinating with elected officials, community boards, and local organizations when needed. Taylor identifies housing affordability as the district's primary crisis and plans to collaborate with city and state leaders to pass reforms, expand affordable housing, and support rental assistance such as Housing Access Vouchers.

Read at Politics NY