In recognition of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, Assemblyman Mike Norris (R,C,I,Ref-Lockport) called on his colleagues in the state Assembly to bring to vote legislation that would prevent crime and truly help those who are victimized. Norris has been a particular advocate against crimes committed on children and served on the Assembly Minority Task Force on Preventing Domestic Violence.

“It is offensive that Albany just passed a $175 billion budget that wasted tax dollars on their ‘pro-criminal platform.’ One day, they are calling for wage increases for incarcerated felons, and the next day they are granting early paroles to felons in time for them to vote. Albany should be focused on crime prevention and protecting New Yorkers against criminals – not rewarding criminals. We should be focused on supporting victims and helping them get their lives back,” said Norris.

Though Norris supports efforts to provide greater housing protections for victims of domestic violence and financing for the Office of Victim Services, both of which were voted on this week in Albany, he said greater emphasis should be put on preventative measures, such as legislation he sponsors called the Domestic Violence Prevention Act – Brittany’s Law. This measure would create a statewide online database of violent felons, similar to the state’s sex offender database, in order to provide a resource to help New Yorkers better protect themselves.

Norris would also like to see recommendations made by the task force, including statewide domestic violence prevention training and education, as well as increased public awareness of the problem. He continues to encourage anyone who is concerned about violence in their home to reach out for support by contacting a teacher, religious leader, law enforcement or medical professional, or by contacting the New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence’s hotline at 1-800-942-6906.