Today, Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh (R,C,I-Ballston) joined colleagues at a press conference held by Assemblyman Ed Ra (R,C,I-Franklin Square), Assemblyman Anthony Palumbo (R,C,I,Ref-New Suffolk) and Washington County District Attorney Tony Jordan to urge lawmakers to pass amendments to the bail reform measures approved in this year’s state budget. The bail reform measures have raised concerns regarding the safety of communities because they prevent judges from holding dangerous criminals on bail, including drug cartel members and extreme violent offenders.

“The flow of illegal drugs from New York City to Canada brings dangerous substances, like heroin and fentanyl right through our beautiful upstate communities,” said Walsh. “When these so-called ‘bail-reforms’ are enacted in the beginning of next year, criminal drug traffickers will be given no more than an appearance ticket because their alleged crimes are considered ‘nonviolent.’ People whose homes are invaded by criminals will not rest easily knowing that the perpetrators will be given a mere appearance ticket. These crimes present a threat to our community, and should be treated as such.

“It is not right that these ‘reform’ measures were passed in the middle of the night without appropriate consideration for public safety. In the final days of session, it is essential that we pass these amendments to ensure the safety of New Yorkers. I commend Assemblyman Ra for bringing attention to this serious issue, and I urge my fellow lawmakers to take swift action to correct what has been put into law.”