Lately, our state’s children have been on the forefront of all our minds. We’ve been having productive and important discussions on education reforms and fair funding for our schools. The fervor and attention this issue has been given shows just how much we care about New York’s children -- as I think we all know deeply that our children are the future of this state and our society.

Troublingly, children are often the target of abuse and assault. New York has made strides in our laws, but I believe that we can do more. Interestingly, there is still resistance from some in the legislature. This will be a tough conversation; it’s never an easy thing to discuss uncomfortable topics, but it’s important that we do.

Recently, a bill was before the Assembly Committee on Codes, and it was rejected by the Assembly Majority. Assembly bill 520, which I sponsor, would have required long-term parole supervision of sex offenders and prevent early release to help prevent the likelihood of a repeat sex crime. In fact, there was a recent case in New York City where an offender and his family asked to have him remain in prison because he wasn’t sure that he could control his actions. He ended up committing another crime. Nearly 40 percent of sex offenders commit another sex crime within 25 years of their release.

Our children are important and the protection of their safety and innocence deserves attention. I sponsor several pieces of legislation that does so. I am sponsoring legislation, A.5211, that would extend the statute of limitation for child abuse like that of sexual abuse. Heartbreakingly, it can take years for a child to work up the courage or find the help to report their abusive situation; they, too, deserve justice.

Furthermore, as we discuss our schools, we must consider creating a buffer for our children and schools that prevents a convicted sex offender from residing within 1,000 feet of a school. I, too, sponsor this bill, A.547. All these bills have bipartisan support, but they need pressure from the public to get through the committee process.

Child abuse breaks my heart and can change the entire trajectory of a person’s life. I hope you join me in supporting these key pieces of legislation to help end the cycle of child abuse. Together, we can make these important changes.

I welcome your input on this topic or any other legislative topic. Please contact me by emailing me at blankenbushk@assembly.state.ny.us or by calling 493-3909.