Proposed Bill Targets Traffic-Blocking Protests as Domestic Terrorism in New York State

Edited by: Fern Sidman

In response to the escalating chaos caused by anti-Israel protests that have paralyzed New York City’s roadways, Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato (D-Queens) has introduced a groundbreaking bill aimed at reclassifying intentionally blocking traffic as an act of domestic terrorism, as was reported by the New York Post. The proposed legislation, which has sparked both support and skepticism, seeks to address the growing concern over the disruption of public safety and the infringement on the rights of commuters.

The bill, introduced by Pheffer Amato, comes in the wake of a surge in anti-Israel demonstrations that have effectively brought traffic to a standstill on major thoroughfares such as the Brooklyn Bridge and the Holland Tunnel, according to the information provided in the Post report. The legislative documents justifying the bill emphasize the distinction between the right to protest and the unacceptable imposition of fear, panic, and danger on others. Under the proposed law, offenders could face a class D felony charge, carrying a maximum prison sentence of 7 years, signaling a stern response to those deemed responsible for obstructing public roadways, the report in the Post added.

Pheffer Amato’s initiative has drawn both praise and skepticism from political insiders and constituents alike. With a looming rematch against Republican candidate Tom Sullivan, the bill has been viewed as a strategic move to appeal to a district that has shown signs of shifting towards a more conservative stance in recent years, as was indicated in the report in the Post. Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Queens) cautioned against the bill being merely a symbolic gesture, urging for substantive action rather than political posturing.

Despite the bill’s ambitious aims, it has garnered limited support thus far, with only Assemblyman Sam Berger (D-Queens) signing on as a co-sponsor, according to the information in the  Post report. The lack of widespread endorsement underscores the divisive nature of the proposed legislation and the challenges it may face in gaining traction within the state legislature.

This bill is part of a broader legislative response to the uptick in anti-Israel demonstrations and anti-Semitic activity following the deadly attacks by Hamas terrorists on October 7th. The Post report also said that Governor Hochul recently championed a legislative package aimed at expanding the state’s hate crime statute to encompass an additional 31 offenses, ranging from graffiti to arson to rape, signaling a comprehensive approach to combating hate-fueled actions and violence.

Despite repeated requests for comment, Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato has remained silent on the matter, leaving the bill’s future uncertain. As debates over the proposed legislation unfold, its fate hangs in the balance, with stakeholders on all sides closely monitoring its progress and implications for the future of public safety and civil liberties in New York State.