Senator Lanza Appointed to Senate Task Force on Counterterrorism and Public Protection

Senate Majority Leader John. J. Flanagan today announced the creation of the Senate Majority Task Force on Counterterrorism and Public Protection and appointed Senator Andrew Lanza a member. The Task Force will analyze current counterterrorism and public protection measures that have occurred since September 11, 2001, and will make recommendations for future legislative and administrative actions that will promote the improved public safety of all New Yorkers.

Senate Majority Leader John J. Flanagan said, “As we reflect on the 15th anniversary of the most devastating terror attack on American soil, it’s vital that New York continues to examine ways to improve our state’s counterterrorism and public protection efforts. Despite some successes and the tremendous work of local, state, and federal law enforcement officials, New York remains an ever present and real target for active terrorist groups. This Task Force will allow us to thoroughly review what works and what can be done better to ensure we’re doing everything in our power to keep New Yorkers safe.”

The Task Force will focus on the prevention, response, and recovery responsibilities of the state and will include: emergency preparedness plans; critical infrastructure protection; cyber security; state/local counterterrorism; school security; electrical power grid security; telecommunication security; coastal waterway/port security; epidemic response; police capital support; and financial recovery response.

Joining Senator Croci on the Task Force are: Senator Andrew Lanza (R-C-I, Staten Island), Senator Martin Golden (R-C-I, Brooklyn), Senator Simcha Felder (D, Brooklyn), Senator Kemp Hannon (R-C-I, Nassau), Senator Joseph Griffo (R-C-I, Rome), Senator Joseph Robach (R-C-I, Rochester), and Senator Patrick Gallivan (R-C-I, Elma).

Senator Lanza said, “As we remember the horrific terror attacks against the United States 15 years ago and the sacrifices made by the thousands of victims and first responders, many of whom resided on Staten Island, we must stay focused on keeping residents safe from terrorism. Unfortunately, threats from ISIS and other radicals continues to grow and spread. The Senate Task Force on Counterterrorism and Public Protection will work to identify and prevent terror threats, attacks and violence, and ensure that we have the best practices in place to protect New Yorkers from future attacks. I thank Senators Flanagan and Croci for their efforts to make New York a leader in the fight against radical terrorism.”

Senator Golden said, “Fifteen years after September 11th 2001, New York still remains a top target for terrorist attacks and our enemies remain a dangerous and real threat. Therefore, we must strengthen our resolve and review our security protocols to better prepare us for the future. Consequently, the New York State Senate acknowledged the importance to create a new Senate Majority Task Force on Counterterrorism and Public Protection. This Task Force will seek input from top security professionals, visit potential terrorist targets, and then make recommendations to improve our state’s safety. The New York State Senate continues to make counterterrorism and the safety of our state a top priority.”

Senator Felder said, “Terrorism wasn’t born on September 11th. Nevertheless, it took the scope of our national catastrophe began to open the eyes of those who didn’t realize how dangerous a time we live in -- a time when radical Islamist groups attempt to reshape the world by whatever monstrous means they deem necessary. New York remains a principal target, and I fully support the formation of this new Task Force to improve the counterterrorism and public protection efforts in our City and State.”

Following its initial reviews of counterterrorism and public protection activity over the last 15 years, the Task Force will perform research, visit critical infrastructure and public protection sites, conduct private interviews, and hold public roundtables and meetings to examine what has worked and what can be done better.

A final report with findings, conclusions, and legislative and administrative recommendations will also be published.
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