September 29, 2004
Suffolk Enacts Landmark Ban on Alcohol Without Liquid (AWOL) Machines
Concern that Vaporized Alcohol Could Lead to Higher Rates of Alcohol Addiction, Cause Brain Damage and Increase Drunk Driving
On Tuesday, September 28, the Suffolk County Legislature approved a resolution introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) prohibiting the sale, purchase and use of Alcohol Without Liquid (AWOL) machines, which recently hit the U.S. market. (more)

September 21, 2004
Cooper: Task Force Should Review Procedure for Confiscation of Tax Delinquent Properties
Bill Was Approved Today by Ways & Means Committee
On Tuesday, September 28, the Suffolk County Legislature will vote on a bill introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) creating a task force to review Suffolk County’s procedure for confiscating and auctioning delinquent tax properties. Currently, foreclosed properties are auctioned off and all profits are remitted to Suffolk County, resulting in the homeowners’ loss of their equity. (more)

August 26, 2004
Legislature Approves Cooper’s Anti-Corruption Bill
Law Will Ensure Integrity of County Contracts
At its August 24th meeting in Hauppauge, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a resolution introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that will prohibit any company or individual that has been found guilty of corruption from doing business with the county. (more)

August 13, 2004
Legislature Enacts Cooper’s Adopt-A-Shoreline Program
Innovative Program Will Help Protect Suffolk’s Waterways
On Tuesday, August 10, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a bill sponsored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) creating an Adopt-A-Shoreline program that will raise money, through corporate sponsorships, to protect our local waterways. The Suffolk County Department of Public Works will issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) to enter into an agreement with a qualified organization to implement the program, which is modeled after the successful Adopt-A-Highway program currently in place. (more)

August 12, 2004
Suffolk Legislature Approves Cooper’s Ban on MIRT Devices that Control Traffic Lights
Law Is First of Its Type in New York State
On Tuesday, August 10th, the Suffolk County Legislature approved a bill introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that would ban the purchase, sale and use of Mobile Infrared Transmitter (MIRT) devices in Suffolk County. MIRTs can change traffic light signals from red to green within seconds at the push of a button. (more)

July 22, 2004
Cooper Slams the Brakes on Vaporized Alcohol Machines
Addiction Experts and MADD Advocates Raise Serious Concerns
At a press conference held today at the Long Island chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) in Huntington Station, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced his introduction of legislation to halt the marketing of a device known as the “AWOL” (Alcohol Without Liquid) machine. This device vaporizes a selected alcoholic spirit, such as vodka or rum, along with pure oxygen. (more)

July 14, 2004
Cooper Opens His Doors to SCORE
When the local chapter of SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) found out that it would no longer be able to occupy its existing office in Huntington Village, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) was quick to offer a solution. A little over a month ago, Legislator Cooper offered space within his legislative district office to the organization so that they could continue business as usual. (more)

July 1, 2004
Legislature Approves Cooper’s Bill Instituting
E-mail Bid Announcement System for Suffolk County
On June 28th, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a bill authored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that will establish an E-mail Bid Announcement System for county bid offerings. The system will allow Suffolk County to notify all registered potential bidders of any bid announcements or RFP opportunities through e-mail. (more)

June 21, 2004
Cooper Acts to Ban MIRT Devices that Control Traffic Lights
Law Would Be First of Its Kind in New York State
In response to a growing need to protect motorists, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper
(D-Huntington) has introduced legislation that would ban the purchase, sale and use of Mobile Infrared Transmitter (MIRT) devices in Suffolk County. MIRTs can change traffic lights from red to green within seconds at the push of a button. (more)

June 7, 2004
Legislator Cooper Cracks Down On Unlicensed Home Contractors
County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced legislation to protect consumers in Suffolk County by increasing the maximum allowable fines levied on home improvement contractors who operate without a license. (more)

May 24, 2004
Legislator Cooper Seeks to Preserve Williams Property in Cold Spring Harbor
Embarks on Effort to Protect Pristine Open Space from Development
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) is spearheading an effort to preserve the environmentally significant Williams property in Cold Spring Harbor. This pristine parcel is comprised of more than 38 acres of heavily wooded hillside, sloping downwards to Shore Road. It has several well-maintained trails and is home to a wide variety of birds, animals, trees, plants and wildflowers. (more)

May 10, 2004
Cooper Pens Anti-Corruption Bill to Ensure Integrity of County Contracts
County Executive Levy Backs Legislator's Effort
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) today announced proposed legislation that would prohibit any company or individual that has been found guilty of bribery or corruption from doing business with the county. (more)

April 2 , 2004
Legislator Cooper Named One of 50 Most Influential Long Islanders
For the second year in a row, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) was honored by the Long Island Press as one of the "50 Most Influential Long Islanders." At a reception held on March 29th, the weekly newspaper announced their second annual "Power List." They recognized a diverse group of people, ranging from elected officials and business leaders to environmentalists and community advocates. (more)

April 1 , 2004
Cooper Calls for Full Restoration of EPA Funding
to Protect Long Island Sound
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced a resolution that calls for the United States Congress to fully restore much-needed funding for the Environmental Protection Agency's Long Island Sound Program for 2005. (more)

March 9, 2004
Cooper Introduces Resolution Supporting Effort to
Raise Minimum Wage in New York
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced legislation in support of a state Assembly bill, approved on March 1, 2004, which would change the minimum hourly wage in New York State. Cooper's resolution calls for the state to raise the minimum wage from its current level of $5.15 per hour to $7.10 by January 1, 2006. (more)

March 8, 2004
Cooper Calls for Income Tax Check-Off
for Public Financing of Election Campaigns
Public Funding Will Reduce the Influence of Special Interests
County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced today that he has introduced a resolution requesting the State of New York to allow an income tax check-off system for partial public financing of Suffolk County election campaigns. This would enable Suffolk taxpayers to voluntarily contribute up to five dollars ($5.00) per year for the public financing of campaigns for the offices of the County Executive, County Legislator, County Comptroller, County Treasurer and/or County District Attorney. (more)

January 26, 2004
Legislator Cooper Appointed to Four Key Committees
New Rules Committee Among 2004 Assignments
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper's 2004 committee schedule will prove to be very intense. Legislator Cooper is pleased to announce that he has been appointed to four significant legislative committees for the 2004 session. He has been named to the Economic Development, Higher Education & Energy Committee, the Veterans & Seniors Committee, the Parks & Cultural Affairs Committee and was one of only two Democrats appointed to the new Rules Committee. (more)

January 12, 2004
Cooper Secures Anti-Gang Funding
for Huntington Station
Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced today that he has secured $35,000 in county funding for the Police Department's Gang Suppression Initiative. This much-needed funding will be used in the Second Precinct to maintain aggressive and proactive gang suppression efforts in Huntington Station. (more)

December 30, 2003
Statement of Suffolk Legislator Jon Cooper
On Federal Ephedra Ban
As the author of the nation's first ban on the sale of the dietary supplement ephedra, Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) said he was thrilled to hear today's news that the FDA and the Health and Human Services Department are taking steps to ban this deadly herbal product. "The federal government—and by extension the entire country—now understands what we've been saying here in Suffolk County for the past year. And that is, 'Ephedra kills, period,'" Cooper stated. (more)

December 18, 2003
Suffolk Legislature Approves Bill Opposing Huntington Rail Yard
Legislator Cooper's Bill Approved Unanimously
On Tuesday, December 16, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a bill authored by County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) calling on the Metropolitan Transit Authority to abandon its plans to build a 24-hour, 16-track railroad maintenance and storage facility in a residential neighborhood in Huntington Station. (more)

December 17, 2003
Legislature Unanimously Agrees Dumping in LI Sound
Is a Bad Idea
Cooper Bill Strikes a Nerve with Colleagues
Yesterday, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a bill authored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) urging the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to abandon its plan to designate a long-term site for dumping dredge spoils in the Long Island Sound off the Huntington shoreline. (more)

December 11, 2003
Suffolk Legislature Gives Unanimous Support to KeySpan/ANP Joint Power Plant Project
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced today that the County Legislature is in full support of the KeySpan/American National Power (ANP) joint power plant proposal slated for Suffolk County. Cooper, who is the Chairman of the Energy Committee, sponsored a sense resolution supporting the construction of two, natural gas-fueled generating plants at the Spagnoli Road site in Melville and at the Yaphank site in Brookhaven. This resolution was unanimously approved at last week's meeting of the full Legislature. (more)

November 25, 2003
Cooper to EPA: Don't Use LI Sound as a Dredge Spoils Dumping Ground
Legislator Urges Agency to Find More Appropriate Disposal Site
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) introduced legislation last week with a very simple and direct message to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: dumping dredge spoils in the Long Island Sound off the Huntington shoreline is a bad idea. (more)

November 11, 2003
Cooper Praises Legislature's Prudence In Eliminating Property Tax Increase
Says Huntington Taxpayers Will See Slight Tax Cut in 2004
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) today hailed the work of the Legislature in cutting County Executive Robert Gaffney's proposed property tax increase included in his 2004 county budget. (more)

October 21 , 2003
Cooper Introduces Legislation Opposing Huntington Rail Yard
Legislator Calls MTA Plan "Preposterous"
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced legislation calling on the Metropolitan Transit Authority to abandon its proposal to build a 24-hour, 16-track railroad maintenance, storage and cleaning facility in either of two residential neighborhoods in the Town of Huntington. (more)

October 16 , 2003
Cooper Slams the Lid on County Land Acquisition Scandals
Legislator Jon Cooper Seeks to Restore Faith in County Open Space
Purchase Program with Introduction of New Disclosure Bill
Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced today the latest in a series of bills that he has drafted in response to the spate of scandals which rocked county government earlier this year. The newest resolution, when enacted, will shed the light of day on Suffolk County’s open space land preservation program by requiring tougher and more stringent financial reporting requirements for individuals who wish to sell land to the county. (more)

September 22 , 2003
Cooper Obtains Funding for Family Service League
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced today that he obtained $67,500 in funding for the Family Service League. With these much-needed funds, the Family Service League will now be able to preserve numerous important programs that help thousands of Suffolk residents.(more)

August 4, 2003
Cooper Sponsors Law to Expose Campaign Finance Violations
Would Require Board of Elections to Audit Campaign Finance
Reports and Refer Election Law Violations to District Attorney
Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced today that he has introduced a resolution that would require the Suffolk County Board of Elections (BOE) to audit the campaign finance reports of candidates for county office and refer any violations of New York Election Law to the District Attorney. (more)

July 3, 2003
Jon Cooper Called for Jury Duty
"It's been nearly 800 years since the Magna Carta established the concept of a trial before the people, without the interference of government. So who am I to ignore that many years of civic tradition?", said Cooper.
County Legislator Jon Cooper's history of civic advocacy and social duty is evidenced by his legislative accomplishments. From the nation's first ban on using hand-held cell phones while driving to his most recent victory prohibiting the sale of the dangerous dietary supplement ephedra, Cooper has long been on the side of the people. This week, he went to the Federal Courthouse in Central Islip to serve as one of the PEOPLE on a JURY. (more)

June 10, 2003
Cooper Calls for Public Campaign Finance Referendum
Public Vote on Amendment to Approve Partial Public Funding of County Election Campaigns
Today, at a press conference outside the Legislative Chamber in Smithtown, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) called for a public referendum to reform Suffolk’s Campaign Finance Laws. Prompted by the recent campaign finance scandal in Brookhaven, Cooper, a strong advocate of campaign finance reform, has sponsored legislation authorizing a referendum for this November. If passed, this public referendum would approve a change in the County Charter that would provide for partial public funding of County election campaigns – at an approximate annual cost of only 50 cents per resident. (more)

May 16, 2003
Cooper "Wags the Tail!"
Suffolk Legislature Passes Jon Cooper's Family-Friendly Dog Run Bill
It has always been noted that dogs wear their emotions on their tails. Now, thanks to a bill introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington), joyful, free-running pooches will be wagging their tails more often in Suffolk County. Earlier this week, the Suffolk County Legislature passed Legislator Cooper's family-friendly dog run bill by a vote of 16-2, allowing pet owners greater use of County parkland and giving County canines a place to run and exercise, free from harm. (more)

May 14, 2003
Legislature Approves Bill to Levy Fines
for Illegal Pine Barrens Clearing
Measure Will Protect Precious Environmental Region
On May 13th, the County Legislature approved a bill sponsored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) authorizing the county to levy fines for illegal building or clearing of trees in the Suffolk County Pine Barrens. (more)

April 24, 2003
Legislator Cooper Helps Fund Sea Stars Marine Camp in Centerport
Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced today that he has obtained a $13,500 county grant for Cornell Cooperative Extension's Marine Program at the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum in Centerport to help fund their Sea Stars Marine Summer Camp. The grant money was used to purchase equipment and supplies, and it also provided enough resources for the camp to lower the registration costs and to offer ten full scholarships to underprivileged children in our district. (more)

April 8, 2003
Cooper, Postal Call for Crackdown on
Out-of-County Medicaid Recipients
Proposal to Require DSS to Report Number of
Non-Residents Receiving Services in Suffolk
The Suffolk County Legislature's Presiding Officer Maxine Postal (D-Amityville) today joined Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) to bring attention to the problem that Suffolk County is facing from an influx of social service clients whose permanent residence is New York City or its surrounding counties. (more)

April 4, 2003
Cooper Bill Would Regulate Indoor Fireworks Displays
Responding to the devastating fire that killed more than 100 concert-goers in Rhode Island, Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has filed legislation that would regulate indoor fireworks displays in Suffolk County. (more)

March 12, 2003
Legislature Approves Bill to Give Tax Relief
to Emergency Workers
Firefighters, EMS Volunteers Will Receive 10% Property
Exemption
On March 11th, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved legislation granting a 10% property tax exemption to volunteer firefighters and emergency medical service technicians in Suffolk. (more)

March 5, 2003
Nation's First Ephedra Ban Is Signed Into Law
Landmark Legislation Enacted in Suffolk
On March 5th, Suffolk County Executive Robert Gaffney signed into law a bill authored by County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) banning the sale of all dietary supplements containing ephedra. It is the first such ban at any level of government in the country. (more)

February 11, 2003
Legislature Approves Ephedra Ban
Landmark Measure Is First Total Ban in Nation
On Tuesday, February 11th, the Suffolk County Legislature approved a total ban on the sale of dietary supplements containing the controversial herb ephedra, the first such ban in the nation. (more)

February 10, 2003
Cooper: County Will Protect Pine Barrens
If State and Local Municipalities Won't
Bill Would Authorize County to Levy Fines and Impose Jail Time
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) joined Richard Amper, Executive Director of the Long Island Pine Barrens Society, at a press conference in Hauppauge today to announce legislation that would allow the county to issue fines to anyone who illegally clears trees or builds in the Suffolk County Pine Barrens region. (more)

February 7, 2003
Cooper Reintroduces Bill to Give
Tax Relief to Emergency Workers
Firefighters, EMS Volunteers Would Get 10% Property Tax Exemption
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has reintroduced legislation he authored last year that would grant a 10% property tax exemption to volunteer firefighters and emergency medical service workers in Suffolk. (more)

January 21, 2003
Legislator Cooper Named One of Long Island's 50 Most Influential People
On Thursday, January 16th, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) was honored by the Long Island Press as one of the "50 Most Powerful Long Islanders." At a reception held at the Garden City Hotel, the weekly newspaper recognized a diverse group of people, ranging from politicians and business leaders to environmentalists and community activists. (more)

January 8, 2003
Cooper: Keep Electric and Gas Bills Together
Blasts Plan to Separate LIPA and KeySpan Bills
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) filed a sense resolution today blasting a plan announced recently by the Long Island Power Authority to separate its electricity bills from the natural gas bills of KeySpan Corporation, saying that doing so would be an enormous waste of hard-earned ratepayer money. (more)

January 7, 2003
Legislature Approves Rule Change
Ensuring Fairness to Public Speakers
Government Officials Will No Longer Receive Preference
Over Suffolk Residents
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has successfully lobbied for a change to the rules of the Suffolk Legislature that will eliminate a provision that allowed department heads and other public officials to jump ahead of other speakers during the public portion of legislative meetings. (more)

December 23, 2002
Cooper Initiative Doubles Environmental Fines In Order to Restore Funding to Health Centers
Polluters to Bear the Brunt, Worthy Programs to Benefit
The recently adopted Suffolk County operating budget for 2003 includes a "stand alone" resolution sponsored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that will essentially double county environmental fines and use the proceeds to restore funding to county health clinics and hospitals targeted for budget cuts. (more)

December 6, 2002
Legislature Approves Cooper's Bill to Enforce Prohibition on Video Voyeurism
The Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a resolution sponsored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that will implement enforcement in Suffolk County of a ban on video voyeurism in public fitting rooms, bathrooms and dressing rooms. (more)

November 26, 2002
Cooper Implements Hunger Outreach Program
Helps Local Seniors and Others Obtain Aid
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has implemented a hunger outreach program for the 18th Legislative District, modeled after a successful pilot program developed last year. In an effort to expedite the process for obtaining food stamps, his district office is sending out fliers and lead cards as well as doing preliminary screening to find out who is eligible to receive assistance. Those who are believed to be eligible are referred to Suffolk County's Department of Social Services for a final screening, and those not eligible are connected to local programs that will help provide food for them. (more)

November 20, 2002
Legislature Approves Cooper Bill Banning Sale of Blunt Wrappers to Minors
The Suffolk County Legislature on Tuesday approved a bill authored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) prohibiting the sale to minors of "blunt wrappers," which are rolled tobacco leaves used for rolling tobacco products. Blunt wrappers are flavored with vanilla, honey, chocolate, strawberry, cognac and other flavors similar to candy, and are designed to lessen the harsh taste of tobacco. (more)

October 24, 2002
Cooper: Hand-Held Cell Phone Use by Drivers Down 52% Since Ban Went into Effect
The use of hand-held cell phones by drivers is down 52% since a new statewide law prohibiting the dangerous practice went into effect last December, according to a recent study, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced today. (more)

September 30, 2002
Cooper Seeks Comprehensive Ban
on Sale of Ephedrine Products
Landmark Measure Would Be Most Far-Reaching in Nation
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced legislation that would ban the sale of all dietary supplements that contain ephedrine alkaloids, the dangerous compound that has led to the death of dozens – and perhaps hundreds – of people nationwide. These products are commonly sold over the counter at nutrition centers in various forms. (more)

September 19, 2002
At the 11th Hour, Legislature Approves Cooper's Campaign Finance Disclosure Bill
Approved with Only Two Days Left in the Life of the Bill
On Tuesday, September 17, the Suffolk County Legislature approved a bill sponsored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that will reform the current laws on campaign finance disclosure. With only two days left in the six-month life of the resolution, the Legislature approved the bill that will pave the way for the general public to have much easier access to information about how elected officials raise their political contributions and how they spend the funds. (more)

September 12, 2002
Bill Would Grant Health Benefits to
Same-Sex Domestic Partners of County Employees
Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has taken a step towards fighting discrimination in Suffolk County with a new bill that would extend health, dental and prescription drug benefits to same-sex domestic partners of Suffolk County employees. Such benefits are already provided to domestic partners of New York State and New York City employees, as well as employees of various counties and cities throughout New York and most major private employers. (more)

August 29, 2002
Cooper Proposes Fenced Dog Runs at Coindre Hall
and Other County Parks
Suffolk Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced legislation seeking the creation of fenced-in dog runs at Coindre Hall in Huntington and other county parks for use by families with pets. The bill was laid on the table at the meeting of the County Legislature on Tuesday, August 27. (more)

August 15, 2002
Cooper Seeks Relief for Volunteer Firefighters and
EMS Workers Through 10% Property Tax Exemption
Suffolk Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced legislation that would grant eligible volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers a 10% reduction in the county portion of their real property taxes. The bill was filed by Cooper on July 9^th and will be the subject of a public hearing at 7:00 pm on August 27^th at the next meeting of the County Legislature in Riverhead. (more)

August 7, 2002
Organ Donors Granted Paid Leave
The Suffolk County Legislature voted on August 6th to grant paid sick leave to county employees who donate organs or bone marrow, under a bill introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington). (more)

July 18, 2002
Second-Grade Politicos Lobby Legislator Cooper
Huntington, NY – While the voting age is still 18, it's never to early for some to involve themselves in government. County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) recently visited Maureen Ryan's second-grade class at Lloyd Harbor Elementary School to distribute Certificates of Appreciation congratulating the 7- and 8-year-olds, among them Cooper's son Christopher, on dozens of legislative ideas he received from them. After an earlier visit to the class to explain exactly what a county legislator does, illustrated thank-you cards filled with innovative suggestions for new bills inundated Cooper. (more)

June 25, 2002
Local Student Wins Norma Weber Achievement Award
On June 14th, the Huntington Chapter of Self Help for Hard of Hearing People, Inc. (SHHH) presented their 2002 Norma Weber Achievement Award to Lisbeth Fernandez. This award is presented annually to a Suffolk County high school senior who will go on to college. Lisbeth plans to study computer programming at St. Joseph's College. Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) was on hand at the Harborfields Public Library to present Lisbeth with a Suffolk County proclamation in recognition of her outstanding achievement. (more)

June 20, 2002
Summer Interns Learn the Ropes at Legislator Cooper's Office
Huntington, NY — This summer, four college students will be putting down their books and trying their hands at politics. Ian McGullam, Sarah Marx, Sarah Protz and Josh Bancroft have signed on for the summer to intern at the district office of County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington). As other returning students work as camp counselors or waiters, these four young people will be learning the ins and outs of local government, drafting press releases, researching legislation and responding to constituents' queries and problems. (more)

June 12, 2002
Legislature Approves Landmark Bill Requiring Universal Reporting of Child Sexual Abuse
Law Will Be Most Comprehensive in Nation
The Suffolk Legislature today approved a landmark bill authored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) which will require all companies and organizations – including religious institutions – under contract with the county to file a report with the proper authorities if they suspect that an employee has committed child sexual abuse. (more)

June 12, 2002
Legislature Agrees to Allow Voters to Decide on 4-Year Term Proposal
The Suffolk County Legislature today approved a bill introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) which will allow Suffolk voters to decide whether or not to extend the terms of county legislators from two to four years. Cooper's resolution will put the issue on the ballot in November as a referendum, so the final decision will rest in the hands of the residents of Suffolk County. (more)

June 10, 2002
Legislator Cooper Honors "Mother Nature" as Volunteer of the Year
Huntington, NY — Although Earth Day has come and gone, Suffolk County's own "Mother Nature" recently had a day in the sun all to herself. On April 30, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) presented a proclamation to Joy Squires honoring her as the 18th Legislative District's Volunteer of the Year. For many years, Ms. Squires has dedicated herself to protecting the environment, working on countless boards, committees and organizations at both the local and state level. She has served as Chairperson of the Huntington Conservation Board, President of the New York State Association of Conservation Commissions, Chairperson of the Huntington Environmental Open Space and Park Advisory Committee, and Originator/Coordinator of Huntington's Park Stewardship Program. (more)

April 29, 2002
Cooper Seeks "Zero Tolerance" Child Sexual Abuse
Reporting Law for Suffolk
Policy Would Be Nation's Most Comprehensive and Far-Reaching
Suffolk Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) held a press conference today in the lobby of the William H. Rogers Legislature Building in Hauppauge to announce his proposed legislation to require all companies and organizations — including the clergy — that do business with Suffolk County to immediately file a report with the police and Child Protective Services if they suspect that an employee has committed sexual abuse of a child or if a child they come in contact with has been the victim of sexual abuse. If enacted, this would be the most comprehensive and far-reaching — and the only universal — child sexual abuse reporting law in the nation. (more)

April 19, 2002
Bill Advocating Breast Cancer Prevention Is Approved Unanimously by Legislature
The Suffolk County Legislature on Tuesday unanimously approved a bill authored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) designating May 13 through May 19 as "Prevention Is the Cure Week" to increase awareness about steps that can be taken to prevent breast cancer and other diseases. (more)

April 9, 2002
Cooper Introduces Bill to Facilitate Full Public Disclosure of Campaign Finances
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced a bill that would remove a bureaucratic step from the process of tracking financial donations given to political candidates in Suffolk County. A public hearing on the proposed measure will take place at the next Legislative meeting in Riverhead on April 16. (more)

March 21, 2002
Legislator Cooper Announces Staff Moves
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has announced several staff changes in his district office. Barbara LoMoriello has been promoted to Chief Legislative Aide and director of district office operations. Richard Lapsley was promoted to Legislative Aide and Christine Machtay has assumed the position of district office secretary. Cooper pointed out that these changes are required to fill a vacancy and do not increase personnel costs. (more)

March 20, 2002
Cooper: Organ Donors Should Be Granted Paid Leave
Pointing to the acute shortage nationwide of willing organ donors, Suffolk Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) this week filed legislation which would grant Suffolk County employees paid leave to donate organs, organ parts, bone marrow or tissue. (more)

March 18, 2002
Bid to Purchase Hilaire Woods Is Approved in Committee
Legislature Will Vote on Bill Tomorrow
A bid spearheaded by Suffolk Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) to preserve the Hilaire Woods property in Huntington took a huge leap forward last Tuesday when the Legislature's Environment, Land Acquisition and Planning Committee voted unanimously to put the bill on the agenda for tomorrow's meeting of the Legislature in Hauppauge. (more)

March 15, 2002
Downtown Revitalization Funding Approved in Committee
Full Legislature Will Vote on March 19
The Suffolk Legislature's Economic Development & Energy Committee, Chaired by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington), on Monday unanimously approved a resolution authorizing funding for a new wave of downtown revitalization projects countywide. (more)

March 13, 2002
Legislator Cooper Secures Grant to Restore Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Building
Huntington — Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has obtained a $5,000 grant to restore the roof of the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Building, which was recently acquired by the Huntington Historical Society. The Society hopes to use this building for more history exhibits and possibly turn it into a visitor's center. The Memorial Building was completed in 1892 as a memorial to Huntington residents who died in the Civil War. It was also the home of the first Huntington library. (more)

March 6, 2002
Legislator Cooper Funds Repairs at Inter-Media Art Center
Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced today that he obtained a $10,000 grant for the Inter-Media Art Center, Inc., which is a non-profit performing arts center located in Huntington Village. IMAC presents live performances and video and visual arts exhibitions to the greater Long Island area. IMAC will use this grant to reupholster worn theater seats that have been in constant use for over half a century. (more)

February 11, 2002
Cooper: State Should Allocate More Funds to Long Island for Tourism Promotion, Transportation
Suffolk Taxpayers Pay Millions Annually, Get Little in Return
Suffolk and Nassau residents pay roughly $80 million every year to support operation of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. Visitors to Long Island generate millions more for state coffers. Yet Long Island does not receive its fair share of revenues from the state to promote tourism or improve its public transportation network. (more)

January 22, 2002
Cooper Retains Chairmanship of Economic Development & Energy
Invites Suffolk County Electrical Agency to First Meeting
Suffolk Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has been reappointed as the Chairman of the Legislature's Economic Development & Energy Committee for 2002. As his first order of business, Cooper has invited Mitchell Pally, the Chairman of the Suffolk County Electrical Agency, to the committee's first meeting on Friday, January 25. (more)

January 14, 2002
Cooper Wants Suffolk County to Convert to Efficient LED Traffic Lights
Suffolk Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has filed legislation seeking to direct the County Department of Public Works to convert standard bulb traffic lights to light emitting diodes, or LEDs, a move Cooper says will save both money and energy. (more)

January 10, 2002
Cooper Seeks Designation of
"Prevention Is the Cure Week" in Suffolk
Suffolk Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced legislation seeking to designate a week in May as "Prevention Is the Cure Week" in Suffolk to educate county residents on how to reduce the risk of getting breast cancer. (more)

December 20, 2001
Cooper Inundated by Requests for
"Hang Up And Drive" Bumper Stickers
Over the past few days, Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has received over two thousand e-mail requests for the "Hang Up And Drive" bumper sticker he created to promote his successful legislative drive to ban the use of hand-held cell phones by Suffolk drivers. (more)

December 18, 2001
Legislator Cooper Receives Sierra Club's
Environmentalist of the Year Award
First Time Award Is Given to an Elected Official
Huntington, NY -- On the evening of Friday, December 14th, the Long Island Chapter of the Sierra Club honored Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) by presenting him with their 2001 Environmentalist of the Year Award. The ceremony took place at the Huntington Public Library before an audience of approximately 100 Sierra Club members. (more)

December 7, 2001
Cooper Helps Build House with Habitat for Humanity
Huntington, NY -- On Saturday, December 1, Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) volunteered with Habitat for Humanity of Suffolk to help "raise the walls" on two new affordable homes in a "Blitz Weekend" on East 4th Street in Huntington Station. (more)

November 29, 2001
Legislators Cooper and Fisher Challenge LIPA
to Eliminate Fuel Surcharge
Suffolk County Legislators Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) and Vivian Viloria-Fisher (D-East Setauket) have introduced legislation calling for LIPA to rescind the "temporary" 5.8% electric rate surcharge it added on March 7, 2001. (more)

November 26, 2001
Legislature Unanimously Approves Cooper's Bill
to Help Preserve the "Hogan Estate"
On Tuesday, November 20^th, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a planning steps resolution, introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D–Huntington), that will allow the county to assist in the effort to preserve the Hogan Estate in Eaton's Neck. (more)

November 14, 2001
Legislative Committee Approves Cooper's Bill
for Potential Purchase of "Hogan Estate"
On Tuesday, November 13, the Suffolk County Legislature's Environment, Land Acquisition and Planning Committee approved a planning steps resolution, introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D--Huntington), that will allow the county to assist in the effort to preserve the Hogan Estate in Eaton's Neck. (more)

October 30, 2001
Cooper and Cuthbertson Announce
Contract Signing to Acquire "Hilaire Woods"
Huntington,NY -- County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) held a press conference today announcing the signing of a contract to acquire Hilaire Woods for preservation as parkland. Huntington Town Councilman Mark Cuthbertson joined Legislator Cooper at the announcement. (more)

October 24, 2001
Legislature Approves Cooper's Bill
to Purchase Key Vanderbilt Parcel
Huntington, NY -- Yesterday, the Suffolk County Legislature approved a resolution introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that will allow the county to purchase "Normandy Manor," a 3.3 acre tract of land across from the entrance to the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum in Centerport. (more)

October 18, 2001
Legislator Cooper Funds Camp
for Children from Low-Income Families
Huntington, NY -- Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced today that he has obtained a $2,000 county grant for the North Shore Holiday House. The Huntington non-profit organization will use the funding to provide enriching camping experiences in an environment of security and hope to local children in need. (more)

October 12, 2001
Legislator Cooper Funds Lloyd Harbor Historical Society
Huntington, NY -- County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) announced today that he has obtained a $3,000 county grant for the Lloyd Harbor Historical Society. The funding will be used to purchase much-needed lighting for the Society's ongoing use of the George Weir Barn located on the grounds of Caumsett State Park. (more)

October 9, 2001
Cooper Co-Sponsors County Plans to Help
Seniors with Prescription Drug Expenses
Three Bills Signed by County Executive
Huntington, NY -- This past Friday, October 5th, Suffolk County Executive Robert Gaffney signed into law three bills, all co-sponsored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington), that are designed to help senior citizens pay for costly prescription drugs. (more)

October 1, 2001
Legislator Cooper Takes Action to Preserve Hogan Estate
Pristine Parcel Is Threatened by Development
Huntington, NY -- Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) has introduced four planning steps resolutions in the Suffolk Legislature that will allow the county to assist in the effort to preserve the Hogan Estate in Eaton's Neck. Cooper hopes that a partnership between Suffolk County, New York State and the Town of Huntington will prevent the loss of this significant parcel of open space. (more)

September 24, 2001
Legislator Cooper Requests Tax and Tuition Breaks
for Volunteer Firefighters and EMS Workers
At its meeting this past Thursday, September 20th, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved three sense resolutions introduced by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that would provide property tax and college tuition incentives to volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel. (more)