Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder (D – Far Rockaway) is calling on New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo to release $60 million in state aid for law enforcement safety upgrades. The funds, which were allocated in the 2015-2016 State Budget, are currently with the State Division of Budget.

“This state funding will keep our men and women in blue safe as they risk their lives to keep our neighborhoods crime-free,” said Assemblyman Goldfeder. “I urge Governor Cuomo and the Division of Budget to release this money to the NYPD immediately.”

In a letter to Governor Cuomo, Assemblyman Goldfeder requested the state expedite the release of $60 million dollars in funds earmarked for municipal law enforcement agencies state-wide to purchase safety upgrades for officers, including bulletproof vests and bulletproof glass for patrol cars. The need for improved safety equipment is great enough that some NYPD officers have resorted to replacing outdated equipment themselves, Goldfeder wrote. The Assemblyman emphasized that any delay could potentially endanger officers as local communities in the city face increases in criminal activity coming into the summer months.

“Our local NYPD officers put their lives on the line each and every day to keep us safe,” concluded Goldfeder. “We have an obligation make sure they have the tools and resources they need, not only to do their jobs, but to come home to their families safe and sound.”

(YWN Desk – NYC)