By Seth Koslow
In politics, disagreements are inevitable. They’re part of a system designed to encourage debate and foster diverse perspectives. But some issues transcend politics — or at least they should.
The fight to equip our first responders with life-saving epinephrine auto-injectors (EpiPens) is one of those issues. And yet, despite its life-or-death implications, my legislation to mandate EpiPens in Nassau County police vehicles has been stonewalled by Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Republican leaders in the Legislature.
I introduced this bill, inspired by stories like Georgina Cornago’s, whose son Giovanni “Gio” Cipriano tragically passed away in 2013 due to an allergic reaction. Since that day, Georgina has turned her unimaginable pain into a relentless mission to prevent others from suffering the same loss. Through her foundation, Love for Giovanni, she’s educated countless people about the dangers of food allergies, advocated for epinephrine accessibility, and helped save lives. Her story has touched the hearts of many, including mine.
Georgina’s advocacy has already borne fruit. In 2019, thanks to her tireless efforts, New York passed Gio’s Law, which allows first responders like police officers to carry epinephrine. But her mission is far from over. On a national stage, she continues to push for epinephrine to be as ubiquitous as AED machines, ensuring no child — or parent — is left defenseless against anaphylaxis. Yet here in Nassau County, where Gio’s story began, we’ve failed to honor his legacy by failing to act.
Anaphylaxis doesn’t care about your socioeconomic status, where you live or your political affiliation. It can strike anyone, anywhere, at any time. A child at a birthday party accidentally eating the wrong cake. A teenager at a school event who didn’t realize there were peanuts in the dessert. A parent walking in the park. Seconds can mean the difference between life and death, and police officers, often the first on the scene, are uniquely positioned to administer epinephrine quickly.
At just $100 per EpiPen thanks to a new price cap on the drug — a cost that could be reduced through bulk purchasing – the cost of implementing this program is negligible, especially when weighed against the potential to save lives and the peace of mind it offers Nassau families. Training officers to use these devices takes less than 30 minutes. Nassau police officers already carry Narcan to combat opioid overdoses, proving their ability to handle life-saving responsibilities. Equipping them with EpiPens is a logical, life-saving next step.
Georgina has said time and again, “Every second counts.” Yet here we are, wasting months on partisan bickering while lives hang in the balance. Neighboring Suffolk County has already implemented similar measures, demonstrating both the feasibility and necessity of such a program.
So why are Nassau Republicans blocking this bill? The answer escapes me, and I suspect it escapes the parents who worry every day about their children’s safety. This obstructionism isn’t just shortsighted — it’s morally indefensible.
It’s time for us to focus on what truly matters: protecting our community. For years, Georgina Cornago has been fighting to ensure that no other family has to endure the loss she has suffered. Her dedication should inspire us all. Yet instead of supporting her mission, some in the Legislature seem more intent on scoring political points.
Imagine a world where Gio’s Law wasn’t just a state initiative but a national standard. Imagine a Nassau County where every patrol car carries the tools to save a life. Imagine the relief parents would feel knowing their local police officers are equipped to protect their children from anaphylaxis. This is an achievable goal, and it starts with passing this legislation.
Georgina’s advocacy has shown us what’s possible when determination meets compassion. She’s organized events like “Trunk or Treat” to create safe spaces for kids with allergies. She’s worked to install public signs in parks, raising awareness about food allergies. She’s even helped educate school systems about the need for accessible EpiPens. Her efforts have saved lives. Now, it’s time for the Nassau County Legislature to do its part.
To my Republican colleagues, I say this: listen to Georgina. Listen to the countless parents who’ve written, called, and pleaded for action. Listen to the doctors and first responders who know what’s at stake. This is not about politics; it’s about saving lives.
Let’s not allow bureaucracy and partisanship to stand in the way of progress. We owe it to Gio’s memory, to Georgina’s tireless efforts, and to every Nassau County family to act now. Passing this legislation is not just the right thing to do — it’s the only thing to do.
Seth I. Koslow, of Merrick, was elected in 2023 to represent the Fifth District of the Nassau County Legislature.