Albany, NY – State Senator Thomas Croci (R,C,IP-Sayville) and Assemblywoman Nily Rozic (D-Fresh Meadows) are calling for immediate passage of legislation (S6048/A9262) they drafted that would keep in place the State’s previously enacted sanctions against the financial and energy sectors of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

“This bill is about ensuring New York State can exercise its legal authority in prohibiting companies from doing business in Iran’s energy sector,” said Assemblywoman Nily Rozic, who is the first Israeli-born member elected to the State Legislature. “In keeping existing sanctions against Iran, we are sending a strong message that the State will not stand for any threat against the security of its citizens and disruption of global stability.”

The bill would build on New York’s long history as a leader in applying pressure on Iran. Three years ago the State enacted legislation requiring the State Office of General Services to identify persons or entities that invest more than $20 million in goods, services or credit in the Iranian energy sector. Senator Croci and Assemblywoman Rozic’s bill would prevent the repeal of existing sanctions without the State Legislature’s consent.

“New York taxpayers do not deserve to have their tax dollars used to support nations that seek to boycott United States allies, such as Israel. In essence, this legislation will ultimately increase our protection as a state because we have strengthened our relationship with our ally nations across the world. I am proud to support this bill and I hope that the Assembly and Governor will act quickly on this legislation that will put a stop to state contracts and investments with those that don’t support American allies,” stated Senator Croci.

Increased support for the bill comes as the State takes up more efforts to ensure federal action does not lift existing sanctions. Earlier in the year, Senator Croci applauded the State Senate’s passage of legislation that would expand New York’s law by prohibiting state contracting with or investment in businesses or individuals that promote or engage in activities to boycott, sanction, or divest in Israel and other American allied nations.

Further, last Fall, Rozic was joined by Assemblyman Phillip Goldfeder (D-Far Rockaway) in leading a bipartisan coalition calling on the Governor to continue state sanctions against Iran. Their push came days ahead of the vote in Congress on President Obama’s proposed Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action to lift international sanctions.

“Iran is a leading sponsor of terrorism as well as a major threat to global stability, and the recent Iran Deal has only emboldened them to continue their dangerous activities. When Washington fails to act, our great state must be prepared to stand up to this terrorist menace,” said Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder. “The New York State Iran Divestment Act will ensure that our families’ hard-earned tax dollars do not go towards Iran’s efforts to undermine countries across the Middle East and threaten Israel’s right to exist as a democratic, Jewish nation. I am proud to lead this effort and I urge all my colleagues to join in support.”

As New York lawmakers continue voicing concerns with Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons and state sponsorship of terrorism, they point to the State’s constitutional powers to provide for the safety, security, and public protection of its citizens and their property. The serious and urgent nature of the continued threat from the present government of Iran, demands that state, local governments and private institutions work together to ensure that Iran does that have the resources to acquire nuclear weapons capability.