New York City Mayor Eric Adams has vetoed two bills focused on police oversight, citing concerns about potential hindrance to law enforcement activities. One bill mandates increased reporting by police officers on low-level stops, which Adams argues could be a waste of their time. The second bill imposes stricter limits on solitary confinement and the use of restraints in city jails, a move Adams believes might compromise safety on Rikers Island. Despite Adams’ vetoes, the City Council is expected to override them, given their prior passage with veto-proof majorities. The proposed legislation aims to enhance transparency in policing and reform solitary confinement practices. Adams, a former police captain, emphasized that the vetoes are not anti-Council but pro-public safety. The Council’s Speaker, Adrienne Adams, and Committee on Criminal Justice Chair Sandy Nurse issued a joint statement urging the Mayor’s administration to engage in collaborative legislative negotiations. This development adds strain to Adams’ relationship with local lawmakers and comes amid broader political challenges. Public Advocate Jumaane Williams criticized Adams, suggesting he is attempting to bolster his pro-police image for potential reelection. The mayor’s solitary confinement veto was quietly announced, while his policing veto drew support from police unions and business associations at a City Hall press conference.
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