Today, Assemblyman Joe DeStefano (R,C,I,Ref-Medford) joined colleagues at a press conference held by Assemblyman Ed Ra (R,C,I-Franklin Square), Assemblyman Anthony Palumbo (R,C,I,Ref-New Suffolk) and Washington County District Attorney Tony Jordan to urge lawmakers to pass amendments to the bail reform measures approved in this year’s state budget. The bail reform measures have raised concerns regarding the safety of communities because they prohibit judges from holding dangerous criminals, including drug cartel members and extremely violent offenders, on bail.

“These bail reform measures were passed late at night without needed consideration for public safety. Judges across the state are concerned with their inability to hold extremely dangerous and violent criminals on bail,” said DeStefano. “As legislators, we should always be concerned with the safety of our communities, and it is necessary that we pass these amendments to protect our citizens from these serious criminals. I commend Assemblyman Ed Ra for bringing this priority to the forefront before session comes to an end.”