Senator Croci Legislation Keeps Pressure on Iran

Thursday, September 10, 2015

For Immediate Release

September 10, 2015

CROCI LEGISLATION KEEPS THE PRESSURE ON IRAN

Senate Bill Would Prevent Repeal of NYS Sanctions Without the Legislature’s Consent

State Senator Thomas D. Croci (R-C-IP), Chairman of the Senate’s Homeland Security, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee, introduced legislation today to maintain New York State’s sanctions against Iran regardless of any action by the Federal government

“New York is the premier terrorist target in the world, and Iran is one of the leading sponsors of terrorism worldwide,” said Senator Croci.  “We must remain steadfast in our opposition to doing business with regimes that support those who threaten our citizens.”

In November 2013, the Governor signed into law another complementary piece of legislation, which established that investments made by domestic insurance companies into those companies that invest in the Iranian energy sector are non-admitted assets (Chapter 481 of 2013).  These actions, passed with overwhelming bipartisan support, moved significant New York State business activity outside the reach of the Iranian economy.

“Our nation is, after all, a Republic, and the people of New York should have a voice in whether their state enforces the provisions of this agreement.  Nuclear material in the hands of the Iranian regime, coupled with their long history of using terrorist groups, including Hezbollah and Hamas, as surrogates to attack the United States and our allies, create a nightmare scenario and almost guarantees devastating future attacks.  New York cannot afford to allow such a scenario,” Senator Croci said. 

Senator Croci also cited the significant opposition in New York State’s Congressional delegation to the Obama Administration’s recently concluded negotiations with Iran as a reason to keep New York sanctions in place.

“I applaud the bipartisan opposition of the Congressional representatives from the 3^rd Senate District, Lee Zeldin, Peter King, and Steve Israel, as well as the opposition of Senator Chuck Schumer, to the Iran deal.  I urge the Governor to follow their courageous example.”

All media inquiries should be directed to Senator Croci’s Communications Specialist, Christine Geed at (631) 398-8044 (call or text) or via email at geed@nysenate.gov.  Inquiries for additional information should be directed to Senator Croci’s Press Secretary, Jennifer Freeman Romero at (631) 513-5657 or via email at jfreeman@nysenate.gov.

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