By Denise D'Alessandro
Jacqueline Biggio is running for election in the 13th Assembly District on the Republican, Independence, Conservative and Right to Life Party Lines. Although she is a newcomer to politics, she hopes to make a difference once elected. "No one can do one thing by themselves, but if everybody helps a little bit, we can make a difference," said Biggio.
Biggio is the founder and CEO of a security company, which has grown from a small security firm into a leading Long Island business with 250 employees, specializing in the protection of buildings, offices and private communities.
First on her agenda, if elected next week, is to take a tougher stance on crime. "Currently there is a five-year statute of limitations in felony offenses including rape and I want to change that - I don't want there to be any statute at all," she said.
If elected, Biggio also plans to revise the Sexual Reform Act. "In New York State, after a pedophile serves his time in jail, he can walk the streets when he gets out," she said. "I want him to be in civil confinement afterward and have someone to answer to."
Another important issue on Biggio's agenda is women's health and continued research on breast cancer on Long Island. She also hopes to educate women regarding their high risk to heart disease. "While breast cancer is frequently spoken about, many people don't realize that the number one killer of women is heart disease," said Biggio.
Biggio supports the Education Tax Credit proposal whereby parents would be provided with an income tax credit for education-related expenditures such as tutoring, instructional materials, computer equipment and software, tuition and enrichment programs like music and art. "One of my ideas for education would be to use the tobacco money to educate children with tobacco-free kids programs."
By walking through local communities and talking to residents, Biggio has learned the main concerns of those she aims to represent. "I am campaigning seven days a week. The people out there have a positive effect - they are happy to hear from me," she said. "I would be great in Albany. I am very energetic and I have a desire to help - that is very important."
Biggio lives in Syosset, where she has lived for over 25 years, with her husband of 23 years and their two children. She has been recognized for her civic and charitable contributions and is a member of the North Syosset Civic Association and Syosset Chamber of Commerce.