Staten Island Reporter

Senate Republicans, alongside Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly, are urging the Governor and Legislature to include changes to discovery laws in this year's state budget. They argue that current laws hinder law enforcement's ability to protect communities.

Anne Donnelly stated, "As a prosecutor with over 32 years of experience... I've witnessed firsthand how 'Cashless Bail' and 'Discovery Reform’ Laws have compromised public safety."

Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt criticized the existing reforms: "Our Senate Republican Conference has been sounding the alarms on the disastrous consequences of so-called discovery reform since it was implemented in 2019."

Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick added, "Since 2019, the Legislature has had its thumb on the scales of justice in favor of criminal defendants."

Senator Rob Rolison emphasized the need for change: "For far too long, our criminal justice system has favored offenders over victims."

The push for reform comes amid ongoing state budget negotiations. The proposed changes were not included in recent Senate and Assembly budgets. Critics point to an increase in case dismissals due to technicalities under current laws.

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