![Senator Headshot](/system/files/styles/4_3_small/private/senate_paths/05-31-23murray-hs-033r_0.jpg?itok=giSZtEP_)
Senator Murray Introduces Mask Law Focusing on Penal Law Amendment
August 19, 2024
-
ISSUE:
- concealment of identity
(Patchogue, NY) – Masks and face coverings have become a very contentious topic lately. Regardless of how necessary they were or are to prevent illness, we know that wearing a face covering while perpetrating a crime has become more common and has given criminals a greater sense of empowerment to commit those crimes. Today, New York State Senator Dean Murray (R,C - East Patchogue), introduced legislation in the State Senate that would amend the penal law by establishing a new crime of aggravated concealment of identity (S.9891). This bill will elevate existing penalties for misdemeanors and felonies by one degree when evidence shows the perpetrator of an illegal act commits such offenses while disguised using a mask or face covering. “I know there has been quite a bit of controversy over when and where people have the "right" to wear a face covering or mask, but what I'm trying to make clear with this bill is that NO ONE has the right to conceal his or her identity for the purpose of committing a crime," said NYS Senator Dean Murray, 3rd District. "I'm hoping this legislation will serve as a deterrent to those thinking of hiding their face in order to commit anonymous crimes and will allow victims to seek justice when hurt by criminals who are emboldened by the current lack of consequences in state law,” said Senator Murray. Currently no prohibition in state law or mechanism exists to hold people accountable for the menacing behavior of intentional concealment of identity during a criminal act. “This bill will fill the gap in state law,” stated Senator Murray.
related legislation
Share this Article or Press Release
Newsroom
Go to NewsroomDavid Mann named to the NYS Senate Veterans Hall of Fame
December 20, 2023
![David Mann named to the NYS Senate Veterans Hall of Fame Mr. David Mann, a United States Army veteran, was named to the NYS Senate’s Veterans Hall of Fame as NYS Senator Dean Murray’s nominee. Senator Murray acknowledged his service by honoring Mr. Mann at the VFW Post 2913’s general meeting in Patchogue, NY.](/sites/default/files/styles/760x377/public/2023/12/21/sd3-dm-vet-david-mann760.jpg?itok=Ao7dqXLh)
![David Kenndy, Executive Director of the Greater Patchogue Chamber of Commerce receives the New York State Senate Empire Award NYS Senator Dean Murray presented David Kennedy, Executive Director of the Greater Patchogue Chamber of Commerce with the NYS Senate Empire Award. The Senator was joined by the Chamber’s Executive Board to recognize Mr. Kennedy for his hard work and dedication over his tenure.](/sites/default/files/styles/760x377/public/2023/12/21/dave-kennedy-img_20231219_105753.jpg?itok=W5VNCcIc)
The "Clean Slate Act" When is Enough, Enough!
November 17, 2023
![The "Clean Slate Act" When is Enough, Enough! Press release on the "Clean Slate Act" in conjunction with Press Conference with Senate & Assembly representatives, Suffolk County Executive-Elect, Law Enforcement Officials and victims' rights advocates regarding the dangers of the 'Clean Slate Act."](/sites/default/files/styles/760x377/public/2023/11/17/img_20231117_134212.jpg?itok=dXHzoq2Q)