Rozic Statement on Passing Pension Forfeiture for Corrupt Officials
June 17, 2016
Albany, NY – In response to the Assembly passing a resolution that would take the next steps towards revoking public pensions from state and local officials convicted of a felony, Assemblywoman Nily Rozic (D,WF-Fresh Meadows) issued the following statement:
“I have zero tolerance for corruption in government. That is why I passed a resolution to amend the New York State Constitution that provides for the stripping of pensions for public officials convicted of a felony related to their official duties. Politicians who betray the public trust and use their office to line their own pockets should not be rewarded with pension benefits paid for by taxpayers.
“Politicians are not above the law, and this legislation makes clear that there are serious consequences when they commit a crime. If you defraud the people, we will defund your pension.”
Note: For this amendment to become law, it must pass in both chambers again next legislative session. At that point, it will be placed on the ballot as a public referendum for voters to amend the New York State Constitution.