A coalition of state lawmakers and law enforcement officials is renewing its push to overhaul New York’s pretrial release laws, arguing that current standards are allowing repeat offenders back into communities and putting public safety at risk.
Standing in Albany this week, State Sen. Pam Helming was joined by sheriffs from Monroe, Ontario and Madison counties, along with other community leaders, to call for passage of the PROTECT Act — legislation that would require judges to weigh whether a defendant poses a danger to the public before deciding on pretrial release.
Supporters say the proposal is designed to close what they describe as a critical gap in New York’s bail laws, which currently limit how courts can factor in public safety when determining whether someone should be held or released ahead of trial.
The bill would establish a “dangerousness” standard, requiring courts to evaluate the risk posed by individuals charged with felonies or Class A misdemeanors. Backers say the measure maintains protections for those who cannot afford bail while giving judges more discretion to prevent repeat offenses.
Helming framed the legislation as a response to what she described as a pattern of preventable crimes, where individuals are released and go on to reoffend. She said the proposal is aimed at prioritizing victims and restoring balance to the justice system.
Law enforcement leaders echoed that concern, pointing to cases where individuals with prior histories of violence are released under current law. Madison County Sheriff Todd Hood said the change would allow courts to better assess risk and reduce the likelihood of repeat offenses.
Monroe County Sheriff Todd Baxter argued the proposal would bring New York in line with other states and the federal system, where public safety is routinely considered in pretrial decisions.
Ontario County Sheriff David Cirencione said deputies often find themselves re-arresting the same individuals under the current system, calling the legislation a “commonsense” step to give judges the tools needed to assess real threats.
The PROTECT Act is currently in the Senate Codes Committee, with a companion bill under consideration in the Assembly.
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