Carlucci's Legislation Lays Framework For First in the Nation Domestic Terrorism Law Expected to Pass in the NYS Budget

(Albany, NY) Shortly after the Monsey machete attack last year, Senator David Carlucci introduced nation-leading legislation (S.7277) to create a domestic terrorism statute, which includes mass violence motivated by hate.

The legislation amended New York’s penal code by expanding what constitutes a charge of terrorism. Under the legislation, a person can be charged with a state-level felony for an act of terrorism if they use a gun or knife to attack an individual or group based on race, color, national origin, ancestry, gender, gender identity or expression, religion, religious practice, age, disability or sexual orientation.   

Today, similar legislation will likely be voted on as part of the New York State budget. 

The bill now named the Josef Neumann Hate Crimes Domestic Terrorism Act, after the 72-year-old victim, Josef Neumann who died this past Sunday from his injuries.

Neumann was one of five people injured in the attack on December 28th of 2019, and was the most gravely injured.   

Senator David Carlucci said, "Sadly, Josef Neumann lost his life because of a senseless act of anti-Semitism and violence in Monsey. The machete attack targeting Jewish people at a Hanukkah celebration left lasting scars on the Rockland community and the State. However, during any difficult time, we know New Yorkers come together to support one another.  I am proud to honor Mr. Neumann's legacy and vote in support of a domestic terrorism law. Now through the Josef Neumann Hate Crimes Domestic Terrorism Act, we can ensure those who commit mass violence against any community based on religion, race, or another protected class, are held to the fullest extent of the law. No matter what trying time we go through, we will send a strong message in this year's budget that anti-Semitism and hate will not be tolerated in New York."

The prevalence of domestic terror incidents has increased dramatically in the U.S. Incidents include, the Wal-Mart shooting in El Paso, the synagogue shootings in Pittsburgh and Poway, the Pulse Nightclub shooting in Orlando and the Charleston church shooting. 

“Terrorism is not just committed by foreigners or international organizations," said Carlucci. "We see a rise in anti-Semitism and hate here at home, which has led to horrific acts of terror committed by people born in the U.S. These individuals should be prosecuted and called what they are, which is domestic terrorists.”