In 2005 the Honorable Sheldon Silver, Speaker, appointed Mr. Pretlow Chair of the Assembly Racing and Wagering Committee. He is also a member of the Assembly committees on Rules, Ways and Means, Codes, Insurance, Cities, and the Assembly Steering Committee. In addition Gary is a member of the New York State Association of Black and Puerto Rican Legislators, Inc., a member of the Black and Puerto Rican Legislative Caucus and the NYS Senate and Assembly Hispanic Taskforce.

Among the many significant pieces of legislation Assemblyman Pretlow has enacted into law, he is most proud of the passage Cynthia’s law. A provision of this law establishes reckless assault of a child as a class D felony. Furthermore, Cynthia’s law raises awareness for shaken baby syndrome by establishing an educational campaign to inform the public of the harm that may result from shaking a young child.

In addition to Cynthia’s law, Mr. Pretlow worked diligently to rescue and stabilize the financial position of New York City Off Track Betting Corporation by advocating for a State takeover as well as the development and implementation of the Task Force for the Future of Off Track Betting in New York State.

Prior to his election to the NYS Assembly, Assemblyman Pretlow presided as President of the Mount Vernon City Council. While on the Council, he served for six years as Chairman of the Finance and Planning Committee and Chairman of the Capital Projects Board. In addition, as a member of the Urban Renewal Agency and Commissioner of Mount Vernon Housing Authority, he was instrumental in bringing new affordable housing to Mount Vernon.

Mr. Pretlow is the proud father of one son, James and the loving husband of Donna Pretlow.

Assemblyman Pretlow is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, the Lions Club of Mount Vernon and the Saint Joseph’s Lodge PHA.

In addition, to his many outstanding accomplishments in the Legislature, Assemblyman Pretlow is also the recipient of numerous awards received in honor of his work on behalf the people of New York State.