Today, Assemblyman Ed Ra (R,C,I-Franklin Square) announced that he’s sponsoring a bill drafted by his colleague Assemblyman Doug Smith (5^th Assembly District) to protect police officers against a rising tide of dangerous, disrespectful harassment, including a recent spate of water dousing attacks.

“These brave men and women put their lives on the line every day. They protect us. This is about making sure they can do their jobs safely and with dignity. Our law enforcement officials in New York adhere to the highest professional standards. They conduct themselves with courage, and they deserve our respect and gratitude,” said Ra.

The bill would create a new, Class E felony crime called “Obstructing a Police Officer.” It would prohibit individuals from spitting at or dumping liquid on officers. It would also outlaw unwanted physical contact and throwing items at police.

Existing charges, including Disorderly Conduct and Obstruction of Governmental Administration, are vaguely-worded misdemeanors that are often dismissed.

“This bill is about deterrence. Police officers continually deal with serious threats to their safety. To distract them with physical harassment cannot be waived off as free speech and cannot be countered by a slap on the wrist. We need to send a strong message- harassing police officers has no place in New York,” said Ra.