New York Republicans are pushing a sweeping package of public safety measures for the state’s transit systems, arguing recent spikes in violence have eroded rider confidence and demand immediate action.
Assembly Republican Leader Ed Ra and members of the conference, joined by Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt, introduced the “Ride Safe, Ride Secure” legislative package during a press conference Wednesday at the state Capitol.
The proposal comes amid what Republican lawmakers described as a troubling increase in crime on subways and buses, including multiple incidents this year where individuals have been pushed onto subway tracks. They also pointed to a rise in robberies and assaults compared to recent years, framing the issue as both a public safety concern and a barrier to broader transit use.
The legislative package includes a series of bills aimed at strengthening penalties for crimes committed on public transportation, expanding transit bans for offenders and increasing security presence across systems statewide. Among the proposals is a $100 million public transportation safety grant program intended to fund security enhancements.
Other measures would allow retired law enforcement officers to serve as transit marshals, similar to federal air marshals, and expand legal protections for bystanders who intervene in emergencies. Additional provisions target repeat offenders and seek to make certain assault charges on public transit eligible for bail.
Several proposals also focus on coordination with federal immigration authorities, including requirements to notify federal officials when non-citizens are arrested, convicted or released, and restrictions on state or local policies that limit cooperation with federal enforcement.
Republican lawmakers framed the package as a response to growing concerns from commuters and called on the Legislature to act quickly. In statements, members of the conference argued that stronger enforcement and accountability are needed to restore safety and reliability across transit systems.
The proposals face an uncertain path in Albany, where Democrats control both legislative chambers and have advanced criminal justice reforms in recent years that Republicans have sharply criticized.
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