A law signed Tuesday by Gov. Kathy Hochul is aimed at bolstering the investigation and reporting requirements of hate crimes on college campuses in the state.
At the same time, New York is sending $51 million in grant money to nonprofit organizations that are at risk of being hate crime targets, Hochul announced.
"Hate has absolutely no place in our state, and we will continue to do whatever it takes to make sure every New Yorker is safe from baseless violence that stems from prejudice," Hochul said. "This is a historic investment in the communities that need our help the most, and with these funds, New York's most at-risk organizations will be able to invest in the security measures they need to stay safe. In the face of disgusting vitriol and violence, I want to be clear: we are not afraid. If you attack one of us, you attack us all — and no one wins a fight against New Yorkers."
The approval of the measure, as well as the grant money, comes amid rising concerns over hate crimes in recent years. Law enforcement organizations in New York reported 947 hate crimes in 2022, a 20% increase since 2021 and the most reported in five years.
The money can be used to strengthen cybersecurity for organizations that are considered to be at risk of being attacked.
The new law signed by Hochul will require a college's advisory committee on campus security to assess current policies for reporting on bias and hate crimes as well as updates the procedure for how campus crime statistics should be disseminated.
"We are proud to be able to ensure that New Yorkers and visitors alike, regardless of their beliefs, ideals, or way of life, can live free from hate," said Division of Criminal Justice Services Commissioner Rosanna Rosado. "DCJS is committed to supporting community-based organizations that know their neighborhoods best. Through this funding, these organizations will be better prepared and protected to provide their services safely and effectively."