New York State Sen. Charles Fuschillo, Jr. (R-Merrick) issued a surprise statement Tuesday that he’s resigning from office to head the Alzeimer’s Foundation of America—announcing the move with 11 hours notice.
Fuschillo, who has authored more than 200 laws in his nearly 16 years in the senate, said that the decision was “hard and bittersweet,” but that he is committed to continuing to help others in need, just in a different capacity.
“I have decided that it is time to begin a new chapter in my life,” Fuschillo said, noting that the new gig will allow him to spend more time with his family. “I am at a point in my life where I am ready for a new challenge.”
The transportation committee chairman said his resignation is effective at 11:59 p.m. Tuesday. In January, he’ll begin leading the Manhattan-based nonprofit advocacy group that acts as an umbrella for groups nationwide that care for people with Alzheimer’s disease.
Fuschillo was the driving force behind a number of key state laws, including the state’s landmark Do Not Call Registry, the Clean Indoor Air Law, stronger penalties for drunk drivers and protections for individuals with autism.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo is expected to set a special election within 90 days to fill the vacant seat in the 8th Senate District, which includes parts of the Towns of Hempstead and Oyster Bay in Nassau County and a piece of the Town of Babylon in Suffolk County.
