Civil confinement legislation has been on the Assembly Republican agenda for more than 10 years. But, year after year, Assembly Democrats shoot down the issue. My colleagues and I refuse to roll over on this matter, and we're determined to keep fighting until this legislation is passed and becomes law.
During a May 18 press conference, my Republican colleagues and I introduced a statewide petition drive designed to force this issue to come to a vote on the Assembly floor. With the help of New York's residents, I know we can finally pass this act and further protect our children.
Civil confinement is a practice that allows judges to order the continued confinement of convicted, violent sexual predators who are deemed a danger to repeat their crimes if released after serving their prison sentences. The criminals would be sent to secure mental health facilities to receive treatment by medical professionals until they are cleared for release.
Civil confinement is the only surefire way to ensure sexual predators won't have more chances to harm our loved ones. Sixteen other states and the District of Columbia have similar laws that were ruled constitutional by the U.S. Supreme Court. In New York, sexually violent predators are released into our communities once their sentences are finished, despite the fact there is a strong possibility they will offend again.
We have seen too many of New York's loved ones hurt emotionally and physically not to act on this legislation.
I encourage all residents to get involved in the petition process by signing the petitions at my district office. Or, if you'd like to promote passage of this legislation, I can fax, e-mail or postal mail petitions for residents to distribute in their communities.
The state Senate has passed similar legislation, and Gov. Pataki has committed to signing the bill into law if it reaches his desk. Join my colleagues and me in calling on Assembly Democrats to approve this important legislation.
|
|
MUSICAL TRIBUTE TO VETERANS A SUCCESS
Assemblyman Brian M. Kolb (R,C-Canandaigua) greets Capt. Robert Green of the 65th Brigade of the New York State Guard on Saturday during their participation in the "Musical Tribute to Veterans" held in the Canandaigua Veterans Affairs Medical Center auditorium.
|
