But Other Legislation By Local Electeds Shot Down by Dems
By Hank Russell
A Long Island assemblyman thanked his fellow Assembly members for passing a bill he co-sponsored that he said would get rid of hatred and antisemitism in the state’s colleges and universities. But another state legislator blasted the Democrat-controlled Assembly for voting down bills that he said would have addressed issues such as crime, the cost of living and public safety.
The Assembly passed legislation sponsored by Nily Rozic (D-Flushing) that would require colleges and universities in the state to appoint a Title VI coordinator, and ensure compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color or national origin in federally funded programs. By establishing a dedicated coordinator at each institution, the bill would strengthen protections against discrimination by streamlining reporting mechanisms for students.
Many Long Island state legislators cosponsored the bill, including Steve Stern (D-Dix Hills), Ed Ra (R-Franklin Square), Ari Brown (R-Cedarhurst), Daniel Norber (R,C-Great Neck), David McDonough (R-Bellmore), Charles Lavine (D-Glen Cove), Phil Ramos (D-Central Islip), Kwani O’Pharrow (D-Lindenhurst) and Noah Burroughs (D-Hempstead).
“I’m proud to be a part of this urgent bipartisan effort,” said Norber. “With rising antisemitism and hate on campuses, this bill provides clear reporting mechanisms and accountability. As it stands, too many students do not know their rights or where to go for help. This has been a point of concern for many in my district, given the rise in antisemitic incidents we have seen statewide, particularly in areas of higher education.”
While the bill advances to the state Senate, some other pieces of legislation introduced by local elected officials will not see the light of day. Among them:
- “Peanut’s Law: Humane Animal Protection Act,” introduced by Jake Blumencranz (R-Hicksville), which would have established protections for animals under the care of registered sanctuaries.
- the Anti-Semitism Accountability and Student Loan Repayment Act, introduced by Keith Brown (R.C.-Northport), which would suspend or revoke tuition awards, student loans and other forms of financial assistance for students found guilty of antisemitism.
- Another bill from Brown that would prohibit state funding to an institution of higher education granting degrees if that institution — whether intentionally or not — permits designated terrorist organizations or activities in support of such groups on campus.
- Legislation introduced by John Mikulin (R-East Meadow) which would require mandatory terms of imprisonment for those who violate their orders of protection.
“New Yorkers are paying the price for unchecked one-party control in Albany,” said Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay (R,C-Pulaski), who had two pieces of his legislation rejected by Assembly Democrats. “Our Conference works tirelessly to advance measures that address the needs of everyday New Yorkers—initiatives aimed at improving public safety, lowering costs, and enhancing quality of life. Yet time and time again, Assembly Democrats stand in the way of practical solutions while residents struggle. These are bills that help everyone, not one political party. The people deserve better than partisan gridlock — they deserve action out of their state legislators.”