YWN interviewed Andrew Wolpin, one of New York state’s kosher law-enforcement inspectors who has just been laid off by the state. The division has been gutted, sparking concerns in parts of the Jewish community that the cuts raise the risk of fraud in the billion-dollar-plus kosher-food industry.
Under budget cuts instituted by outgoing Gov. David Paterson, the division’s eight inspectors and one assistant were laid off starting this year. Two other inspectors retired over the past year and weren’t replaced; only the division’s director remains. The division is part of the state’s Department of Agriculture and Markets.
The elimination of the jobs will save an estimated $1 million a year in salary, benefits and services, such as computers and cars, according to a spokeswoman for the department.
Several lawmakers, Jewish leaders and kosher businesses are lobbying Gov. Andrew Cuomo to restore the cuts.
(Video by Shimon Gifter exclusive for YWN)
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4 Responses
This restaurant in Queens that Mr. Wolpin mentioned, can’t he get in contact with the Heimeshe Hasgocha and tell them what is happening, so innocent people don’t eat treif? Isn’t it the responsibility of the certifying organization to check on these things?
Shouldn’t we hold them accountable?
The state has no business being in the KOSHER business. This is a personal/religious issue, and the state should bud out. If I want to eat in a place it’s my job to verify the hashgacha.
As for this guy’s interview, he is a big liar. His job is never to inspect a restaurant, his job is to inspect the disclosure form that is posted, and verify the info on it. He is not supposed to go into a kitchen.
If I choose to sell pork, and put a sign kosher, I can legally do so if I document that the standard of kosher is my own ideas.
This whole department was nothing more than political payback, and it’s time to let it go.
I agree with No. 2
To #2 and #3; I suggest you check your facts before stating them so vehemently.