The Assembly Minority today blasted the Majority for passing legislation that would release thousands of convicted drug dealers from prison. Under the Majority proposal, drug dealers would be able to avoid prosecution for violent crimes, and treatment facilities would be flooded with dealers who feign addiction as a legal defense strategy.

By contrast, the State Senate today passed a comprehensive expansion of Megan’s Law that includes many measures supported by Assembly Minority. The Assembly Majority has consistently obstructed similar legislation, including civil confinement of the most dangerous sexual predators, over the course of the 2005 session, or has presented watered-down measures that don’t go far enough to protect women and children.

"Our highest priority as lawmakers should be protecting the people of New York," said Assembly Minority Leader Charles H. Nesbitt (R,C,I - Albion). "Helping drug dealers return to the streets and blocking measures that would keep sex offenders out of our communities are both clear derelictions of that most important duty."

Of the prison population in New York State incarcerated for drug offenses, 86 percent were convicted of sale or intent to sell. Furthermore, 77 percent of those in prison are second felony or persistent felony offenders.

"The Assembly Majority has shown tremendous leniency on drug trafficking and sex offenses - two inherently violent crimes with high rates of recidivism," said Assemblywoman Dierdre "Dede" Scozzafava (R,C,WF,I - Gouverneur), ranking Minority member on the Assembly Codes Committee. "Today’s action continues that trend and is another major setback."