Today in Albany, Assembly Minority Leader Ed Ra (R-Franklin Square) joined the Spina Bifida Association of New York State (SBANYS) to advocate for state support in the FY 2026-2027 State Budget. The group is calling on Gov. Hochul and Legislature to include $250,000 to support SBANYS’ work to improve outcomes for individuals and families impacted by spina bifida—a birth defect in which the spine and spinal cord do not form properly. Additional state funding would support the hiring of regional staff statewide, strengthening education, outreach and partnerships with hospitals and health care providers and ensuring every person living with spina bifida has access to quality, knowledgeable care and the opportunity to participate fully in society.