NY Governor Hochul Responds to Trump's Cashless Bail Executive Order

Governor Hochul's Stance on Bail Reform

• 🏛️ Governor Hochul stated that President Trump's executive order targeting cashless bail policies misunderstands how New York's laws function.
• ⚖️ She emphasized that New York has made significant changes to its bail laws over two consecutive legislative sessions, and the data indicates these changes are effective.

Cashless Bail Policy in New York

• 📝 The current policy allows defendants to be released upon their promise to return to court, rather than requiring a financial payment (cash bail).
• 💔 This policy is controversial, highlighted by the case of Bertha Gabriella Li, whose brother was a victim of a stabbing spree allegedly committed by an individual with a history of prior arrests.

Federal Funding and National Guard Concerns

• 🚨 President Trump's executive order threatens to cut federal funding to states, including New York, that limit the circumstances under which judges can set cash bail.
• 🤝 Attorney General Pam Bondi met with NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tish to discuss the possibility of President Trump sending the National Guard to New York City.
• 📉 Commissioner Tish reportedly informed Bondi that crime is decreasing in New York City, suggesting no need for National Guard intervention.
• 💰 Mayor Adams expressed confidence that the NYPD would remain functional even if federal grants were revoked, urging other criminal justice partners to fulfill their roles.