NY Democrats are pushing for a bill to direct tax dollars to former convicts

Harlem Assemblyman Eddie Gibbs and Brooklyn state Sen. Kevin Parker are proposing a contentious measure in Albany that would give criminals leaving prison nearly $2,600 in taxpayer-funded pocket money.

This plan aims to make crime profitable and shifts the financial burden onto law-abiding citizens.

Despite the usual rhetoric about poverty causing crime and concerns for the dignity and stability of ex-convicts, no consideration is given to law-abiding citizens who also deserve dignity and stability.

This initiative has little to do with preventing future crime, as data shows that criminal justice reform efforts in Albany have actually increased recidivism rates among offenders.

The proposed program is expected to cost at least $25 million initially and would increase annually to adjust for inflation.

There are no provisions in the bill for monitoring how the money is spent.

This proposal reflects the same misguided priorities as lenient judges who release dangerous criminals back into the community.

Assemblyman Gibbs’ claim that the bill is “investing in the safety and prosperity of our communities” is seen as a direct insult.

This bill is just another example of the pro-crime stance taken by some Democrats in the Empire State.