Governor Kathy Hochul has addressed the public’s growing concerns regarding New York’s bail reform policies. Hochul emphasized the legislative changes made last year, which aimed to grant judges greater discretion in bail considerations, moving away from the mandate of using the “least restrictive means.”
Highlighting her commitment to ensuring public safety, Hochul recalled how the budget’s approval was delayed by a month to incorporate these critical changes in the judiciary process. She expressed her concern that despite these amendments, some judges continue to apply the previous standard, inadvertently compromising the safety of New Yorkers. The governor’s remarks were a direct call to action for the judiciary, urging them to fully utilize the new provisions to safeguard the community effectively.
The governor’s statement, however, did not address the implementation of a “dangerousness standard,” leaving some questions unanswered about future reforms. Hochul’s focus remains on encouraging the judiciary to apply the expanded discretion now available to them, in hopes of striking a balance between justice and public safety.
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