Rockland Writes: Statement From Senator Weber on Terrorist Sympathizers Disruptively Blocking Traffic and Access to Public Buildings

Dear Rockland Residents, 

In the aftermath of the Hamas terrorist attack against Israel on October 7, 2023, there have been terrorist sympathizers disruptively engaging in protests, blocking traffic and access to public buildings, including airports and train stations. These actions pose risks not only to the Jewish communities throughout our state but disrupt the lives of all New Yorkers and impede emergency services.

 

I stood with my colleagues in support of community safety. We voted for an amendment aiming to hold those responsible for these disruptions accountable. The proposed Aggravated Disorderly Conduct offense would make a class A misdemeanor to obstruct traffic or access to any building as part of an unpermitted protest or demonstration and allow for this offense to be charged as a hate crime, elevating the penalty to an E felony.

 

Regrettably, the amendment did not pass as the majority party clearly favors lawlessness. They're the same group who brought us the disastrous bail reform laws and continue to risk the safety of our communities, neighborhoods, and streets.

Senator Bill Weber