A letter backed by Democratic Rep. Anthony Brindisi raises concerns with the implementation of new criminal justice law changes that end cash bail for many charges.
The letter is the latest broadside against the legislation, due to take effect next month, amid criticism from state lawmakers and some local prosecutors and law enforcement.
In addition to Brindisi, Democratic Rep. Max Rose of Staten Island signed the letter as did Republicans Reps. Tom Reed, Peter King, Elise Stefanik and Lee Zeldin.
“While we agree criminal justice reform has long been needed around the country, New York State’s new soft-on-crime bail laws, which will let dangerous criminals roam free, endanger their victims, and hamstring the authorities who want to hold them accountable, this is not the answer,” the lawmakers wrote.
“Additionally, this new law will cripple local counties and municipalities that will be forced to pass along new, unfunded mandates required in the bill to local taxpayers.”
Brindisi is running for re-election next year in a district President Trump carried in 2016. His seat is considered a top target for Republicans in 2020.
On Monday, Republican Sen. Jim Tedisco and Democratic Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara unveiled legislation meant to delay the implementation and provide more judicial oversight.