The far-left majority of the New York City Council is planning to push Albany politicians to pass a series of progressive measures that include bills to potentially release convicted killers when they turn 55, allow felons to vote in prison, and hinder federal immigration enforcement. The council has compiled a “confidential” list of 30 bills currently before the state Legislature that they are urging lawmakers to approve and Governor Kathy Hochul to sign into law. However, some lawmakers have criticized these measures for prioritizing the interests of prisoners and illegal immigrants over public safety concerns and taxpayers.
Some of the proposed measures include the Elder Parole Bill, which guarantees automatic parole hearings for prisoners over 55 who have served 15 or more years, regardless of their crimes. The Fair and Timely Parole Act prohibits the state parole board from denying early release based on past criminal records. The Universal Voting Bill would allow convicted felons to vote in prison, while the Gender Identity Respect and Safety Act would enable inmates to choose a male or female jail based on their gender identification.
The New Yorkers for All Act would prevent state and local governments from enforcing federal immigration laws and assisting immigration authorities, essentially making New York a sanctuary state. The Transparency and Accountability in Charter Schools Bill aims to provide financial oversight of charter schools and limits executive pay. The proposed AANHPI Community History Bill requires Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander history to be included in all New York schools’ social studies curriculum. The Employee Privacy Act would prohibit employers from using the E-Verify system to check the immigration status of potential workers.
The Bill to Protect Minors Interrogated by Police mandates that minors arrested for crimes be consulted by attorneys before being interrogated by law enforcement and have their parents or guardians contacted. The Treatment Not Jail Act seeks to reduce the prison population on Rikers Island by expanding criteria for convicts to be placed in mental health diversion programs instead of incarceration. Overall, these bills represent a progressive push by the New York City Council to address criminal justice and immigration issues, but they have faced criticism for their potential impact on public safety and taxpayer funds. Some lawmakers have raised concerns about the priorities of the council and its lack of collaboration with their constituents.
