New York State is moving to combat crime with a sweeping set of investments and reforms in its new budget. Governor Kathy Hochul announced a series of measures aimed at reducing recidivism, enhancing public safety, and addressing hate crimes and violence across the state.
$347 million for gun violence prevention
The FY26 budget allocates a record $347 million to gun violence prevention programs. These initiatives have already helped drive firearm-related violence down by more than 50% since pandemic-era highs.The investment includes $50 million in law enforcement technology grants to modernize crime-fighting tools across the state.
Changes to discovery laws target case dismissals
In response to concerns over criminal cases being dismissed due to technicalities, the budget enacts reforms to New York’s discovery laws. These changes aim to support crime victims and ensure perpetrators are held accountable. An additional $135 million will go to prosecutors and defenders to help them comply with revised discovery rules, a $15 million increase over the previous year.
Subway safety gets $122 million boost
As part of efforts to improve safety on public transit, the state will spend more than $120 million to:
- Increase police presence in New York City subways
- Install new LED lighting and protective barriers on platforms
- Expand the use of fare gate systems to prevent fare evasion
This includes $77 million to surge NYPD patrols for six months and $45 million for the National Guard’s Empire Shield mission focused on transit hubs.
State tackles hate crimes and domestic violence
To address the rise in hate crimes, the FY26 budget dedicates $35 million to the Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes (SCAHC) program. This initiative helps synagogues, mosques, and other vulnerable locations enhance security.
New funding also expands services for victims of domestic and sexual violence:
- $13 million for rape crisis centers, doubling last year’s funding
- Over $3.3 million to increase reimbursements for forensic exams
- $3.8 million to raise funeral expense caps for homicide victims
New mask law and tougher penalties
A newly signed statute creates a Class B misdemeanor for anyone using a mask to hide their identity while committing or fleeing a Class A misdemeanor or more serious crime. This measure aims to deter crimes committed under disguise.
Corrections system overhaul
Following recent safety concerns and a correction officer strike, the budget includes:
- $685 million to stabilize correctional operations
- $400 million to expand fixed surveillance cameras
- $18 million to grow the body camera program
- Authority to hire 18+ year-olds as corrections officers
- Permission to close up to three correctional facilities with 90 days’ notice
These measures are intended to improve staff safety, accountability, and rehabilitation efforts within state prisons.
What happens next?
Implementation of these changes will roll out over the next year, with a focus on law enforcement coordination, victim support, and infrastructure improvements. As New York continues to combat crime, state officials say these investments signal a long-term commitment to public safety and justice…