Lawmakers unveiled a proposal Monday that would let New York prosecute corporate executives who knowingly cause large-scale harm to public health or safety, according to Spectrum News. Supporters pointed to disasters like the Hoosick Falls water contamination crisis and the Ohio train derailment as examples of why stronger criminal penalties are needed.
The proposed Corporate Catastrophe Act would add a new crime to New York penal law targeting executives accused of recklessly causing widespread injury, toxic releases, fires, floods, explosions, or building collapses. Assemblymember Emily Gallagher and Sen. Michelle Hinchey introduced the legislation alongside environmental advocates and local leaders.
Hoosick Falls Mayor Dan Schuttig said he spent years drinking contaminated water tied to industrial chemicals in his community. Supporters argued corporations too often avoid accountability when environmental disasters harm residents across entire regions.
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