ALBANY, NY —The New York State Assembly has passed legislation sponsored by Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther to establish the New York State ALS Research and Education Fund and provides, on corporate finance and personal income tax returns, a check-off for gifts to the fund.

ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), better known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, is a progressive neuro-degenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. According to the ALS Association, the disease can strike anyone, and life expectancy averages from two to five years after diagnosis.

“There are currently about 30,000 people diagnosed with ALS, but as of yet, no cure,” said Gunther. “This legislation will give New Yorkers the option of conveniently contributing toward research of this terrible disease.”

In the senate, the legislation is carried by Senator David Carlucci and is currently in the senate finance committee for consideration.