Advocates, Democrats and families of those who fatally overdosed have criticized the Blakeman administration for what they called the slow pace of spending the money as the opioid crisis continues, with more than 650 people dying of deadly overdoses on Long Island last year, Newsday previously reported.

Bruce Blakeman reiterated his commitment to public safety and fiscal responsibility in his State of the County address on Wednesday, March 13.

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman addressed constituents Wednesday evening in his annual State of the County speech, vowing to hire more police and correction officers and touting several controversial bills he backed last year.

Blakeman focused on safety, highlighting that the county has hired over 300 police officers and corrections officers during his term.