Buffalo, NY (WBEN) As many in the community are concerned about the recent spate of gun violence, others are concerned the state of emergency will affect those who legally own guns. NY's second-in-command says to them, not to worry.
Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul says most in the community are appalled by gun violence in places like Buffalo and expect the state to do something about it. "To elevate it by calling it a public health crisis and an emergency is a way of saying it's time to devote resources to this," says Hochul.
Hochul says legal gun owners have nothing to worry about. "To the gun owners who may be anxious, your legal guns are safe. We are going after illegal guns and I think everyone will appreciate the fact the state of New York is protecting all New Yorkers," explains Hochul.
Part of the governor's strategy includes a $138.7 million investment in intervention and prevention programs. Hochul says exactly how much will come to Buffalo and how many jobs will be created has yet to be determined. "We expect to get a significant share of that money because most of it will go to large urban areas like New York City and Buffalo," says Hochul. "We have a lot of local partnerships with local police and sheriff's departments. All that's coming but we're also looking at re-thinking our approach to criminal justice and violence. It's about jobs as well, and trying to bring back communities where violence is so bad people are leaving," notes Hochul.
Hochul says Buffalo is in a renaissance but until every neighborhood is safe, her job is not done.
