Statement on the Mayor's Veto of the How Many Stops Act

We are deeply disappointed by Mayor Adam’s recent veto Intro. 586 of the How Many Stops Act (“HMSA”). This critical piece of legislation would have shed light on all NYPD's stops, which harmed Black and Brown New Yorkers and eroded trust between communities and law enforcement.

The Mayor's claim that the HMSA would hinder police efficiency is simply untrue. Data-driven transparency is essential for building trust and accountability in policing. Intro. 586 would have provided valuable insight about all levels of police stops and encounters, including where the stop occurred, demographic information on the person stopped, the reason for the encounter, and whether the encounter leads to any use of force or enforcement action.. This information is crucial for identifying and addressing discriminatory practices, improving police-community relations, and mostly importantly, promoting true public safety.

Mayor Adam’s veto is a missed opportunity to move forward with common-sense reforms that would make our City safer and fairer for all. We urge the City Council to override the veto and enact the full How Many Stops Act without delay.

In solidarity,

The Gathering for Justice

Additional Resources: https://www.gatheringforjustice.org/policy-and-advocacy