New York state senators Fred Akshar and Mike Martucci joined local firefighters Saturday, calling on lawmakers to pass Billy's Law. It would require bail and pre-trial detention for felony arson charges.
The bill is named after Assistant Fire Chief Billy Steinberg of Sullivan County. Authorities say he died of a heart attack last month while responding to a fire that was allegedly set on purpose.
Under current state bail laws, felony arson in multiple degrees allow a person immediate release on an appearance ticket.
"The person responsible for this, since admitting to setting fire to three structures in the last week. If New York bail reform had not been put in place by prior administration, this individual would have been retained in the Sullivan County jail the first time." said Billy's father, Jim Steinberg.
Last month, Gov. Kathy Hochul expressed support for the state's bail laws, but said she'd be open to discussing changes if data proves they are needed.
Her office says she will review the legislation if it passes both houses.