FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 29, 2024
Contact: Trip Eggert, teggert@vera.org

The Vera Institute of Justice urges New York City voters to vote “no” on Proposals 2–6 next Tuesday at the ballot box. These proposals are an attempt by Mayor Eric Adams to evade commonsense checks and balances, particularly on criminal justice reform and public safety. Sebastian Solomon, interim director of the Vera Institute of Justice’s Greater Justice New York initiative, issued the following statement:

“We join the New York City Council, other justice reform advocates, and proponents of good government in calling on New York City voters to vote no on Ballot Proposals 2 through 6. These proposals would block legislation by the City Council that furthers police accountability, better management of the city’s jail system, and investments in the community-based programs and services that improve quality of life for all New Yorkers and help our neighborhoods thrive. New Yorkers deserve a mayor who believes in transparent and inclusive policymaking—not one looking to do an end run around the City Council to advance his own agenda.”

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About the Vera Institute of Justice: The Vera Institute of Justice is powered by hundreds of advocates, researchers, and policy experts working to transform the criminal legal and immigration systems until they’re fair for all. Founded in 1961 to advocate for alternatives to money bail in New York City, Vera is now a national organization that partners with impacted communities and government leaders for change. We develop just, antiracist solutions so that money doesn’t determine freedom; fewer people are in jails, prisons, and immigration detention; and everyone is treated with dignity. Vera’s headquarters is in Brooklyn, New York, with offices in Washington, DC, New Orleans, and Los Angeles. For more information, visit vera.org.