Matthew Hamilton in Capitol Confidential reports that the Republican majority handed out Senate committee assignments Thu., Jan. 22, and George Amedore (R-Rotterdam), the new Senator who represents the 46th District, will chair the Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Committee. Amedore will also be on the Banks, Consumer Protection, Elections, and Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs committees. "Everyone knows someone who has struggled with addiction, especially with the heroin problem that has overtaken so many communities throughout the state. We need to work on solutions to increase awareness, and also make sure that good treatment programs are available and properly funded. I look forward to working with my colleagues on solutions to help minimize the alcohol and drug abuse problems that so many New Yorkers are facing," said Amedore in a press release. See the full story in Capitol Confidential.