Governor Kathy Hochul is pushing for legislation targeting masked protesters during state budget negotiations, despite previously downplaying the issue. The proposed bill, backed by Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz and Senator James Skoufis, aims to enhance penalties for harassment when individuals conceal their faces while threatening violence. Hochul expressed her concerns about mask use in criminal activities and acknowledged ongoing discussions about restrictions, although she has not publicly emphasized the issue as much as before. The bill faces potential opposition in the Legislature, particularly from liberal factions.
"I have said before that I support some variation on restrictions on use of masks, except for medical and religious reasons," she told reporters.
"Mask use in the commission of a crime are deeply troubling to me," Hochul added. "We're having conversations. We'll see how it goes."
"I've been pushing for the bill and I'll be thrilled if we pass it in the budget or outside the budget," Dinowitz told The Post Wednesday.
"I hope they come to their senses. I have a feeling they won't," said Assemblyman Ari Brown, who sponsors a separate bill.
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