Senator Pam Helming joined Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt, Senator George Borrello, and sheriffs from across New York this week to call for passage of her bipartisan PROTECT Act (S.2282A).
Developed with input from law enforcement and community faith leaders, Helming’s legislation would give judges a risk-assessment tool to help determine whether violent offenders should be held in custody pretrial or released.
“Public safety is an issue that affects everyone, whether you’re 9 or 99,” Helming said. “My legislation, the PROTECT Act, resulted from a collaborative and bipartisan effort of people who believe our state government must prioritize your safety, your family’s safety, and the safety of our communities. I’m determined to make the PROTECT Act the law in New York State and I invite everyone to join us.”
Supporters argue that failed policies have removed judicial discretion, leading to more dangerous offenders on the streets. They say the PROTECT Act restores balance and fairness to the justice system while protecting New Yorkers.
“Albany Democrats would rather handcuff our judges instead of criminals and this has resulted in more dangerous individuals in the community instead of in jail. Just recently in Buffalo we saw a young mother murdered at the hands of someone who should have been behind bars, but thanks to out-of-touch policies that favor violent felons, this man was allowed to roam free. It’s time my colleagues in the Capitol wake up to the realization their policies have failed and we must prioritize public safety – the PROTECT Act is the first step to restoring sanity to our communities,” said Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt.
The bill, which has bipartisan support, remains in the Senate Codes Committee.
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