George Latimer to Take Lead on Governor Cuomo's Hate Crimes Prevention Legislation Following Charlottesville Violence

WESTCHESTER- Today, George Latimer, Democrat for County Executive announced that he will be the lead sponsor of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s “Charlottesville Provisions” legislation, which strengthens New York’s hate crime laws by changing the penalty for inciting riot from an A misdemeanor to an E felony.

“In the wake of the right-wing violence in Charlottesville, this legislation sends a strong message that hate will have no quarter in New York State,” said Latimer. “As a Senator, I’m proud to sponsor this bill; as County Executive I will direct our Human Rights Commission to return to its core missions of combatting discrimination with public education and prompt adjudication of complaints.”

“Donald Trump’s divisive politics, tacit support of white supremacy groups and verbal attacks on immigrants have served as a catalyst for hate crimes and the glorification of hate violence across the nation,” Latimer said. “I thank Governor Cuomo for taking the lead and pushing back against this rise in bigotry and I look forward to working with him to see this bill passed.”

Latimer noted that even after Charlottesville, Astorino has refused to condemn Trump’s cruel repeal of DACA and vetoed legislation to protect immigrants in Westchester County. Lastly, he pointed out that under Astorino's leadership, the County has eliminated twelve police officers. Positions, he says, "that would go a long way in protecting the public safety and well-being of Westchester residents post-Charlottesville".

“There comes a time when we must stand up for what is right, and not let politics or partisanship silence us, but Rob Astorino has refused to do so,” Latimer said. “Although I would like to think that the events in Charlottesville would never happen here, if we don’t speak out now, forcefully, we are opening the door for this kind of hate to grow. It’s time to act.”

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