Niagara Leader

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney has introduced the Stop Enabling Repeat Violence and Endangering (SERVE) Our Communities Act, leading a group of New York Republican representatives. The bill aims to address crime by encouraging states like New York to implement policies holding repeat offenders accountable.

Representatives Andrew Garbarino, Nicole Malliotakis, Nick LaLota, Mike Lawler, and Nick Langworthy joined Tenney in introducing the legislation. The SERVE Our Communities Act proposes $10 million in anti-recidivism grant funding from the Department of Justice for states with laws that allow courts to assess individuals' dangerousness when determining bail or pretrial release. To qualify for this funding, states must demonstrate efforts to hire and retain law enforcement personnel or launch public awareness campaigns countering anti-police sentiment.

"We must end the ongoing cycle of crime caused by Albany's bail reform policies," said Congresswoman Tenney. "The SERVE Our Communities Act incentivizes states to prioritize law enforcement and public safety."

"Since the Democrats’ radical 2019 Bail Law took effect, violent crime and recidivism rates have skyrocketed across New York City and State," stated Congresswoman Malliotakis.

"Bail reform has destroyed New York," said Congressman Langworthy. "Our brave law enforcement officers and law-abiding New Yorkers feel the consequences while criminals roam free."

"New Yorkers deserve to feel safe in their communities," added Congressman Garbarino. "The SERVE Our Communities Act is a necessary step toward restoring accountability."

“Cashless bail is the single stupidest piece of legislation ever signed into existence,” commented Congressman Lawler.

“The SERVE Our Communities Act takes critical steps to address the dangerous soft-on-crime policies imposed by Albany Democrats,” said Congressman LaLota.

Several sheriffs expressed support for Tenney’s bill:

"The NY Bail Reform of 2020 has proven to be a Colossal Failure," said Jefferson County Sheriff Peter Barnett.

"I support any legislation that supports training and educating those in the legal system who are charged with determining the custody status of repeat offenders," noted Ontario County Sheriff David Cirencione.

"I would like to thank Congresswoman Tenney for sponsoring the Serve Our Communities Act," stated Cayuga County Sheriff Brian Schenck.

"I am in full support of the Stop Enabling Repeat Violence and Endangering (SERVE) Our Communities Act," said Seneca County Sheriff Tim Thompson.

"This critical legislation is essential to enhancing public safety in our communities," remarked Oswego County Sheriff Don Hilton.

"Our worst fears have been realized with repeat offenders and dangerous criminals being allowed to walk free in our community," commented Niagara County Sheriff Michael Filicetti.