State Sen. Zellnor Myrie just lately launched a invoice to amend the New York Civil Rights Act, in an try to strengthen New Yorker’s rights in opposition to a federal administration liable to overreach and which critics say constantly threatens constitutional rights.
“This isn’t a second to be sitting on the sidelines. Our legal guidelines give us a roadmap to guard our civil rights –– the rights generations have fought and died to enshrine,” mentioned Myrie, who chairs the Senate Codes Committee. “The New York Civil Rights Act will give us the instruments we have to maintain accountable those that deprive us of our constitutional protections. At a time of deep nervousness and uncertainty, New Yorkers will not be defenseless.”
In an op-ed for Bloomberg Legislation, Myrie defined that New York Metropolis is grappling with “indiscriminate” U.S Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers, budgetary retaliation in opposition to cities, a doable “federal occupation” of Nationwide Guard troops, and an “aggressive” U.S Division of Justice (DOJ).
“I’ve noticed examples of those encroachments up shut in immigration courtroom. I’ve heard from scores of constituents. And like many people, I’ve watched these actions play out throughout the nation,” mentioned Myrie in his op-ed.
His invoice would amend the present New York State Civil Rights Legislation to permit New Yorkers to sue for civil damages in opposition to authorities officers –– on the native, state, or federal stage –– who violate their constitutionally-protected civil rights. The invoice additionally helps these wronged get compensatory damages, punitive damages, injunctive and declaratory aid, and attorneys’ charges.
“I’m deeply involved by the rising violence championed by the Trump administration. New Yorkers want safety in opposition to state-sanctioned violence,” mentioned Assemblymember Gabriella Romero, who sponsored the Meeting model of the invoice. “I’m proud to champion this invoice for New Yorkers to create a possibility for reprieve when Federal Brokers are appearing as weapons in opposition to the individuals. We’d like actual alternatives for motion, and that is one software in our toolbox to counteract the fascism coming straight from the Trump administration.”
