NEW YORK (1010 WINS) – Gov. Kathy Hochul signed three new laws aimed at reducing crime across New York State, targeting hate-fueled violence, boosting anti-violence education in schools, and addressing the issue of stolen cell phones.
"Public safety is my top priority, and I'm committed to using every possible tool to keep New Yorkers safe," Hochul said. "The data is clear: New York has gotten safer since I took office in 2021, but there is more to do to stop hate and prevent violence in our communities. Signing these bills today will create three new laws to help protect New Yorkers and further reduce crime."
The new laws aim to enhance public safety through targeted measures. One law strengthens protections against hate crimes by classifying the removal or threat of removal of religious clothing, such as yarmulkes or hijabs, as aggravated harassment in the second degree.
Another law expands the Omnibus School Violence Prevention Grant program to fund anti-violence education in schools. This includes trauma support for at-risk youth, group counseling, and evidence-based anti-violence initiatives, providing much-needed resources to address violence at its roots.
The third law, known as "Detective Brian Simonsen's Law," requires wireless providers to disable services on stolen cell phones. Named in honor of Detective Simonsen, an NYPD officer who was killed in 2019 while responding to an armed robbery at a cell phone store, this legislation aims to crack down on cell phone theft and related crimes.
