Member of Congress
Michael Lawler
- Role
- Current Representative
- State
- NY
- Party
- Republican
Speeches
HONORING THE LIFE OF MICHAEL ALEXANDER RAIMONDI2024-12-10
Mr. LAWLER
Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the life of Michael Alexander Raimondi, a remarkable young man from Westchester County, who was tragically taken from us far too soon. Michael was a bright and imaginative soul who brought joy to everyone around him. A student at Somers High School and a member of the Westchester County Police Cadet program, he had begun exploring his love for forensic science and criminal justice. His creativity knew no bounds, from crafting intricate origami designs to building automotive LEGO masterpieces with his brother and grandfather. Michael's gentle and nurturing spirit shone through in his love for animals, his deep bonds with family, and his quiet yet purposeful way of expressing himself. His love for music, gaming, and endless laughter with his brother, Matthew, created memories that will live forever in the hearts of those who loved him. Though his time with us was far too brief, Michael's vibrant spirit and boundless imagination left an indelible mark on Somers and all of the Hudson Valley. May his memory be a blessing to his family and all who knew him.
HONORING OMER NEUTRA2024-12-03
Mr. LAWLER
Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, today, we New Yorkers rise with a heavy heart to honor the memory of Omer Neutra, a 21-year-old from Plainview, New York. A grandson of Holocaust survivors, Omer deferred his enrollment at SUNY Binghamton to serve in the Israeli Defense Forces, driven by a profound sense of duty and a dream of building peace in the Middle East. On October 7, 2023, Omer, serving as a tank commander, was among the first to respond to Hamas' brutal attack, risking his life to protect others. Tragically, as we learned this weekend, his life was taken during this horrific massacre. Omer's loss is deeply felt by the entire community in New York and across America. Flags across our State have been flown at half-staff in his honor, and we all join together in mourning a young man of extraordinary courage and conviction. Our deepest condolences are with his parents, Orna and Ronen; his brother, Daniel; and their entire family. For the past 423 days, driven by the love of their son, Orna and Ronen have endured something that no parent should ever have to endure. With strength, courage, resolve, and hope, they traveled the world, petitioned world leaders, visited Washington dozens of times, and fought tirelessly to bring their son home. Yesterday, I had the opportunity to speak with Orna and Ronen and offered my profound sorrow for their loss and that of our country. I told them how much I admire, respect, and love them, for they never stopped fighting, and I promised them we would never stop fighting to bring Omer's body home and get them the justice they deserve. We will bring them home. May Omer's memory always be a blessing, and may we never forget his sacrifice in the pursuit of peace and in the defense of democracy. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from New York (Ms. Stefanik), the esteemed House Republican chair and future U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations.
Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Meeks), the ranking member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.
Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Suozzi), my colleague who represents the Neutra family as a Member of Congress.
Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I ask that all Members join me for a brief moment of silence in honor of Omer Neutra.
HONORING JEREMY EMANUEL HONEY2024-11-18
Mr. LAWLER
Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the life of Jeremy Emanuel Honey, a lifelong resident of Suffern, New York, who passed away in September at the age of 77. Jeremy was a U.S. Army veteran, serving proudly during the Vietnam war, and at posts including West Point and Walter Reed Hospital. After his service, he dedicated his career to veterans at Montrose Veterans Hospital, earning recognition as Federal Employee of the Year from President Ronald Reagan in 1984. Jeremy's impact on his community was extraordinary. He volunteered as an EMT with the Ramapo Valley Ambulance Corps, established several veterans agencies in Rockland County where they had not been represented, and served as commander of the local Disabled American Veterans for over 20 years. His dedication earned him a place in the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame in 2019. Jeremy's legacy extends beyond his accomplishments. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he was a man of compassion and selflessness, known for mentoring others and lifting up those who needed it most. He will be missed by all of our veterans and our broader Rockland County community.
HONORING THE LIFE OF DARIEL VASQUEZ2024-11-12
Mr. LAWLER
Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Dariel Vasquez, a courageous young man from Pomona, New York, who tragically lost his life at just 18 years old. Dariel was a dedicated parks and recreation aide with the New York State Parks Department and a selfless volunteer with the wildland fire crew, who gave his life battling a wildfire in Sterling Forest in Greenwood Lake. A 2024 graduate and captain of the Ramapo High School varsity baseball team, Dariel was a true leader, beloved by his teammates, coworkers, and friends alike. His coach described him as authentic, a young man who inspired everyone around him with his kindness, strength, and unwavering dedication. Dariel was a star player and a beloved son, brother, and friend. He had big dreams, plans for college, and hopes for the future, all left tragically unfulfilled. At his vigil, family, friends, and community members gathered to remember a young man who embodied the spirit of service and who bravely gave his life to protect our Hudson Valley community. May Dariel Vasquez rest in peace.
HONORING MAJOR THOMAS "TK" KENNEDY2024-09-24
Mr. LAWLER
Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Major Thomas ``TK'' Kennedy, a true son of Rockland County, whose unwavering dedication to serving his country with valor and distinction is a shining example of patriotism. Born in Suffern, New York, and raised in New York City, Tom was the youngest of three boys. He loved to play hockey, playing for the Ramapo Saints, followed by Don Bosco Preparatory School, and eventually as part of the Black Knights of the United States Military Academy at West Point, where he graduated in June 2000. On August 8, 2012, Major Kennedy tragically lost his life in Kunar Province, Afghanistan, when a Taliban suicide bomber struck while he was escorting a group to a provincial governor's meeting. His sudden departure left a void that can never be filled. He left behind his wife, Kami, and their twins, who were just weeks shy of their second birthday. Throughout his distinguished military career, Major Kennedy earned an impressive array of awards and service medals, including two Bronze Star Medals, a Purple Heart and Bronze Star posthumous, two Meritorious Service Medals, three Army Commendation Medals, and three Army Achievement Medals, among many others. His dedication to his country and his fellow soldiers will always be remembered. We honor Major Thomas ``TK'' Kennedy for his ultimate sacrifice and service and remember him as a loving husband, father, and hero who gave everything for his country. His sacrifice is a solemn reminder of the weight of service bore by our brave soldiers.
VILLAGE OF SLEEPY HOLLOW CELEBRATES 150TH ANNIVERSARY2024-09-19
Mr. LAWLER
Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Village of Sleepy Hollow. Nestled on the Hudson River just 20 miles north of New York City, the Village of Sleepy Hollow is 5.2 square miles of history and intrigue. Sleepy Hollow was immortalized by Washington Irving's spooky tale of the Headless Horseman. The real Sleepy Hollow, however, isn't haunted or a place of nightmares but, rather, a community of men and women living their American Dream. Some famous residents include former Vice President of the United States and Governor of New York, Nelson Rockefeller, Olympic Gold Medal-winning decathlete Caitlyn Jenner, and Pearl Harbor survivor and Bronze Star recipient Armando ``Chick'' Galella. It is the home of Phelps Hospital, J.P. Doyle's, the Rockefeller State Park Preserve, the Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse, and Sleepy Hollow Country Club, and more. Yes, their Halloween parades and Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze are a frighteningly good time, too. This past weekend, I was honored to join my Sleepy Hollow constituents to celebrate the historic village's incredible milestone. As I stood among friends, neighbors, and local leaders, I was filled with pride for what Sleepy Hollow represents: a rich heritage, strong community values, and a bright future ahead. Today, we are joined by several of the Village board members, including Tom Andruss, Jared Rodriguez, James Husselbee, and Deputy Mayor Denise Scaglione. Unfortunately, Mayor Martin Rutyna and Trustees Patrick Sheeran and Lauren Connell couldn't join us today. On behalf of the residents of the Village of Sleepy Hollow and the United States House of Representatives, I am honored to recognize our esteemed elected officials today and thank them for their dedicated service on behalf of the residents. Over the years, Sleepy Hollow has not only embraced its storied past, but also evolved into a thriving village that continues to honor its traditions while welcoming new growth and innovation. It is places like this that make New York's 17th Congressional District so special. I thank all the Sleepy Hollow residents and stakeholders who throughout the course of this year have made this celebration such a great success. Their passion, dedication, and love for this community are what make Sleepy Hollow such a unique and cherished place to call home.
ENHANCED PRESIDENTIAL SECURITY ACT OF 20242024-09-19
Mr. LAWLER
Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding. In America, elections are determined at the ballot box, not by an assassin's bullet. In recent months, we have seen two such attempts on the life of former President Donald Trump: first in Pennsylvania, and most recently in Florida. That these incidents were allowed to occur is a stain on our country. We have endured through assassinations of political leaders, including Presidents. It is destructive to our country. It is destructive to our democracy, our constitutional Republic, and it undermines the confidence that Americans have in their government and in the electoral process. But for a millimeter's difference, Donald Trump would be dead. But for a millimeter's difference, an assassin would have upended our election. Regardless of how every American feels, regardless of how every American intends to vote, it is the right of the American people to determine the outcome of this election. The idea that our election could be decided by an assassin's bullet should shake the conscience of our Nation, and it requires swift action by the Federal Government. It requires Congress to ensure that the Secret Service provides the same level of protection as it does to the President of the United States to the leading candidates for President. In this case, they are former President Trump and Vice President Harris. Either one of them is going to be President come January 20, 2025, and the American people should get to make that choice. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from New York (Mr. Torres) for assisting in immediately moving to introduce this legislation in the aftermath of the first assassination attempt on Donald Trump. It is shocking that it took a second assassination attempt for Donald Trump to get the same level of protective detail from the Secret Service as the President of the United States. It shouldn't have come to that, which is all the more reason why this bill is necessary. It will ensure that this never happens again and that the Secret Service conduct an immediate review to determine what resources are needed, what personnel is needed, and report immediately back to Congress. This will ensure that every candidate running for President gets the same level of protective detail as the current President and that the same level of protective detail afforded to the Vice President is afforded to the Vice-Presidential candidate. We have a responsibility to ensure their safety and their well-being. I also commend my colleagues, Congressman Mike Kelly and Jason Crow, who are leading the House Task Force on the Attempted Assassination of Donald J. Trump. Their work to investigate this incident and the detailed shortcomings within the Secret Service will certainly help Congress implement further meaningful reforms in the future and ensure the funding and resources are available. I think the most important thing for the American people to understand is that it is the responsibility of the government to ensure that our elections are free, fair, and decided by the American people at the ballot box, and that any attempt, either by a foreign government or by a fellow citizen, to undermine that by trying to assassinate a political candidate must be stopped at all costs. Mr. Speaker, I thank Speaker Johnson, Leader Scalise, and Chairman Jordan for swiftly moving to advance this legislation to the floor for a vote. I encourage every single one of my colleagues, regardless of their political views, regardless of whether they like or dislike one of the candidates, to recognize the fundamental fact that we have a responsibility to ensure their safety and well-being and let the American people decide who will be President, not an assassin and not an assassin's bullet.
Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, on the issue of gun violence in America, I think about New York and the disastrous cashless bail law, which was put into effect and supported by the ranking member and continues to be supported by the ranking member, in which more than 80 percent of perps who are carrying and using a gun are released back out onto the street. I will quote New York City Mayor Eric Adams: ``When it comes to guns, this year, 2,386 people were arrested with a gun. Of those, approximately 1,921 are out on the street.'' Eric Adams went on to say: ``Arrested with a gun, out on the street.'' ``Gun arrests in custody, 19.5 percent. Out of custody, over 80 percent.'' ``How do you take a gun law seriously when the overwhelming numbers are back on the streets after carrying a gun?'' Eric Adams says very clearly that you can't take it seriously when you refuse to prosecute people who use guns in the commission of a crime. So many of my colleagues in New York have been so clueless about this. They talk about gun violence, but they have no problem allowing a criminal using guns in the commission of a crime to be put back on the street to do it again and again. It is wrong. If you want to crack down on gun violence in America, then prosecute criminals who use guns in the commission of a crime, but no, we don't want to do that. New York raised the age so 16- and 17-year-olds are being treated in family court rather than criminal court, and the gangs are using them, letting them use guns in the commission of a crime because they know they are going to get a slap on the wrist. Let's get serious about gun violence in America. Let's crack down on criminals who actually use guns in the commission of a crime.
IN RECOGNITION OF DETECTIVE TIM HAYES AND K9 REMY2024-09-10
Mr. LAWLER
Mr. LAWLER. Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize Detective Tim Hayes and K9 Remy, the first certified electronics detection dog in Rockland County history. Remy is a 1-year-old black lab, named after Welles Remy Crowther, a Nyack native known as the man in the red bandana, who selflessly gave his life saving as many as 18 lives on September 11, 2001. Welles Remy Crowther was a hero, and I am glad that the Rockland County District Attorney's Office recognized him in this way. Remy and Tim work at the Rockland County District Attorney's Office, where they are tasked with identifying laptops, cell phones, SD cards, and USB drives that contain illegal content at crime scenes. Tim is a former U.S. Army paratrooper and veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom. Following his service in the military, he joined the NYPD, working his way up to the rank of detective before joining the Rockland County District Attorney's Office. On this 23rd anniversary of September 11, we remember and honor Welles Remy Crowther, and I thank Tim and Remy for their service.
REMOTE ACCESS SECURITY ACT2024-09-09
Mr. LAWLER
Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to urge the House to pass my bill, the Remote Access Security Act. The U.S. export control regime exists to limit American critical technology and goods from falling into the hands of adversarial regimes and those who answer to them. Export controls are immensely important to ensure countries like China can't access U.S. advanced semi- conductor chips to enhance their own chip development, which has implications for their military capacity building, as well. Unfortunately, there is a loophole in the current export control regime. Chinese companies have been remotely accessing tech covered by export controls, enabling the CCP to continue using U.S. chips to develop AI and modernize their military forces. This must end. My bill allows the Commerce Department's export controls authority to recover remote access of technology. That way, once my bill is signed into law, all exports of chips, including through the cloud, will be prohibited effectively closing the loophole. The framework to combat China's growing tech developments already exist, but it is imperative that Commerce has the tools to make this effective. I thank Chairman McCaul and all my Foreign Affairs Committee colleagues for passing this bipartisan bill through committee, and I thank the Speaker for bringing it to the floor today. I urge all my colleagues to vote for this commonsense bill.
DEPARTMENT OF STATE, FOREIGN OPERATIONS, AND RELATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 20252024-06-26
Mr. LAWLER
Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Chair, I have an amendment at the desk.
Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Chair, today, I rise in support of my amendment to increase funding for the Peace Corps. This investment is a commitment to our Nation's values and our role on the global stage, and we should not back away from it. The Peace Corps represents the best of America. It embodies our spirit and our generosity. It helps build communities across the globe and exposes them to the good that America does in the world. These initiatives are more crucial than ever in today's world where American soft power, which the Peace Corps is a projection of, must be at the forefront of the pushback against authoritarian countries like Russia and China. As we consider the challenges and opportunities before us, let us come together to ensure the Peace Corps is equipped to continue its mission. Supporting this amendment means supporting sustained American leadership and goodwill across the globe. Thousands of Americans serve in the Peace Corps every year and reducing their funding would prevent them from accomplishing their critical mission. I have heard from many constituents about their personal experiences with the Peace Corps and they can tell you, as good as anyone, how impactful serving has been and how many volunteers go on to incredible careers in public service. I ask my colleagues to stand together to fund this vital program for the next generation of Americans and enhance our Nation's legacy of making a positive impact worldwide. Mr. Chair, I urge all Members to support this amendment, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Chairman, I respect my colleague across the aisle, but to my knowledge, my colleagues across the aisle never offered an amendment to increase funding for the Peace Corps, and this is an amendment that is before us to do just that. We are constrained by the Fiscal Responsibility Act. We are trying to stay within the confines of the law and make sure that our spending is in line with the Fiscal Responsibility Act. If my colleague agrees with me that we need to increase funding for the Peace Corps, I can't understand why we would be opposed to an amendment that would do just that. Yes, we all think every program is vital. Yes, we would love to see it at every level we would like to raise it to. This is an amendment that increases spending for the Peace Corps. If you agree with that, even if it is not up to the level you would like, I am not sure why you would oppose it. At the end of the day, this is an amendment that I believe all of my colleagues should support, and I think it is unfortunate that my colleagues across the aisle would oppose it simply because it doesn't go high enough. It is still higher than is in the base text. If you believe in the mission of the Peace Corps, I encourage all of my colleagues to support this amendment, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Chairman, we are supporting a critical program while staying within the confines of the Fiscal Responsibility Act, which this body, this Congress, and this President agreed to. That is what we are seeking to do while supporting the critical mission of the Peace Corps. That is why I encourage all of my colleagues to support this amendment, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.
HONORING ROBERT J. CASTELLI2024-06-04
Mr. LAWLER
Mr. LAWLER. Madam Speaker, today, I rise to honor the memory of Robert J. Castelli, a dedicated public servant who passed away at the age of 74. Robert's remarkable life journey began at 17 when he left high school to serve in the Vietnam war. As a member of the 7th Cavalry Regiment, he displayed extraordinary bravery during major battles, earning multiple commendations, including the Combat Infantryman's Badge. Following his military service, Robert embarked on a 21-year career with the New York State Police and later distinguished himself in academia, teaching at institutions like the John Jay College of Criminal Justice. His commitment to public service continued in the New York State Assembly, where he was a staunch advocate for veterans' affairs. Beyond his professional life, Robert was a passionate outdoorsman and a member of the Camp Fire Club of America. Robert is remembered as a soldier, scholar, and statesman. His legacy is cherished by all who knew him. Robert leaves behind his wife, Jeanette; children, Christian and Paul; and grandchildren. His life of service and leadership will not be forgotten. I cherished the friendship that he and I had over the past many years.
IN MEMORY OF LUKE RATHSCHMIDT2024-05-23
Mr. LAWLER
Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, today I stand before you to honor the memory of Luke Rathschmidt, a dedicated veteran, community leader, and beloved father, who tragically passed away this past weekend. Luke's sudden departure leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him. Luke was the inspiration behind United for the Troops, a charity founded by his parents, Jim and Patty Rathschmidt, which sends care packages to our brave soldiers overseas. This initiative began with a simple act of love: A care package sent to Luke during his deployment with the U.S. Army. His family's effort blossomed into a movement that has brought a touch of home to tens of thousands of our brave men and women abroad. A revered member of the Mahopac community, Luke was also the commander of VFW Post 5491, where he was known for his leadership and being a pillar of support for fellow veterans. His commitment to service was paralleled only by his dedication to his family, including his two children, Jaelynn and Brandt, and the love of his life, Tracy. Luke's legacy is in the lives he touched, the community he strengthened, and the country he served. We mourn his loss, but celebrate his incredible, impactful life. I extend my deepest condolences to the Rathschmidt family and all who were fortunate enough to know Luke. He was truly larger than life, and his memory will indeed last a lifetime.
REMEMBERING MARK WOODS2024-05-22
Mr. LAWLER
Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to remember the life of a true American hero, Mark Woods, who dedicated his life to public service in the military, in law enforcement, and in his local community. A two-term U.S. Army combat veteran and a retired NYPD detective who served on the Joint Terrorism Task Force, Mark lived a life of service from the start. His passion for supporting fellow veterans through his role as director of the Joseph P. Dwyer peer-to-peer veteran service program at BRIDGES and as a veteran service officer in Rockland County was revered by all in our region. Mark was rightly recognized as Rockland County's 2024 Veteran of the Year thanks to his unparalleled efforts advocating for veterans and getting them the support and services they need and deserve. Beyond his work for the veteran community, Mark was a councilman in the town of Clarkstown and a dedicated family man. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, especially his wife, Jeanne, his son and daughter, who should know that Mark's legacy will continue to inspire and guide all of us. On a more personal note, Mark was great friend, who I was honored to swear in as councilman in January, and I will miss him dearly. He was a humble and decent man whose work was rooted in service to the people of Rockland County. May God rest his soul on behalf of a grateful Nation.
REMOVAL OF NAME OF MEMBER AS COSPONSOR OF H.R. 50942024-05-16
Mr. LAWLER
Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I hereby remove my name as a cosponsor of H.R. 5094.
HONORING DR. FRANCES PRATT2024-05-14
Mr. LAWLER
Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor an exemplary leader, Dr. Frances Pratt, for her remarkable service to Rockland County and New York State as we celebrate her 90th--I mean, 29th--birthday. Known for her distinctive hats, advocacy in our community, and a deep faith, Dr. Pratt's life has been marked by a passionate commitment to civil rights and an unwavering ability to unite people from diverse backgrounds. Growing up in South Carolina in the segregated South, she traveled northward with her husband, eventually settling in Nyack in 1957. After receiving her nursing degree from Rockland Community College in 1959, she served as a nurse and in the medical field in Rockland for over 45 years. Beyond her heroic service in medicine, Dr. Pratt also served as president of the Nyack branch of the NAACP for over 40 years, growing the organization into a major force for good within Rockland and beyond. Throughout her career, Dr. Pratt has been a beacon of hope and a pillar of strength, advocating tirelessly for justice and working to make her community better each and every day. Mr. Speaker, I thank Dr. Pratt for her many years of service, her inspirational leadership, and the indelible mark she has left on Nyack, Rockland County, New York State, and our Nation. Her impact will resonate for generations to come. On a personal level, I adore her. Honoring the Life of Alfred Robert Mosiello, Jr.
Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, today I rise during National Police Week to honor the life of Alfred Robert Mosiello, Jr., known affectionately as Ally, who tragically passed away on May 2, 2024. Born in the Bronx, Ally grew up in Mahopac, New York, and was a standout defensive lineman at Mahopac High School. He carried his passion for football to Hobart College where he earned degrees in engineering and economics/finance. In 2013, Ally began a career with the Village of Pelham Manor Police Department and later joined the Westchester County Police Department in 2021. His work ethic, integrity, and commitment to the community set him apart as a model police officer. Beyond his professional life, Ally was a loving husband to Angela and a devoted father to Jaxson and Isabella. He found joy in the simplest pleasures: riding ATVs, throwing pool parties, and spending quality time with his family. Ally was also a man who stood ready to help anyone in need, a testament to his generous spirit and kind heart. To his wife, Angela, his children, his colleagues in law enforcement, and all his loved ones, our deepest sympathies go out to you. May Ally rest in peace, knowing that his life was well lived and his memory will forever be cherished.
HONORING LIEUTENANT MICHAEL HOOSOCK AND OFFICER MICHAEL JENSEN2024-05-06
Mr. LAWLER
Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from New York (Mr. Williams) for bringing us here today to recognize Lieutenant Michael Hoosock and Officer Michael Jensen, two heroes who gave of themselves in service to our community. As the Bible teaches us: ``Greater love has no man than this, than to lay down his life for his friends.'' Lieutenant Hoosock and Officer Jensen laid down their life in defense of our community to ensure the safety and the well-being of our residents. They answered the call of duty and went above and beyond and made the ultimate sacrifice. It wasn't just a sacrifice they alone made. It was a sacrifice that their families made. To Cait, Nicole, Samuel, and Gabriel, there are no words that will make this better. There are no words that will make this okay. We grieve with you. Our heart breaks for you, and we will be here to support you. This morning, I spent time at the Brinks robbery memorial for slain Nyack Police Sergeant Edward O'Grady, Police Officer Waverly Brown, and Brinks guard Peter Paige. Nearly 43 years ago, they were killed in the 1981 Brinks robbery. Nine children were left fatherless. Every year, we gather on October 20 to remember those two officers and security guard who died in that horrific robbery. Additionally, every year, one by one, their killers were released. We have seen in New York, over the last 6 years, 37 cop killers released. The depraved indifference for law enforcement is unconscionable because the reality is, if we don't respect law enforcement, if we don't respect the rule of law, there is no society. The reason we have seen a rapid increase in crime in New York is precisely because there is no respect for the rule of law, and people do not believe there are consequences for actions. Cashless bail will go down as the single stupidest policy that has ever been signed into law anywhere. Since that law took effect, over 40 percent of those that have been arrested for a felony offense and then released under cashless bail have been rearrested for committing another offense. You look at cashless bail, you look at Raise the Age, the HALT Act, Clean Slate, and the continued parole for unrepentant cop killers, and as a result we have a lawless society. Last year, $4 billion in retail theft. Why? Because quality of life crimes aren't prosecuted any more in New York. We let people walk right out of the store with whatever they want. The lawlessness must come to an end. Respect for law enforcement, putting victims above criminals is essential. Without it, we will continue to be in this place where cops are murdered and taken away from their families. It is why as a member of the State legislature I introduced a bill that would ensure life without the possibility of parole, pardon, or clemency for killing a law enforcement officer. If we cannot respect our law enforcement officers, if we cannot stand up for them and ensure their safety as they stand up for all of us and ensure ours, then we do not deserve a safe and just society. To the family of Lieutenant Hoosock and Officer Jensen, we will continue to fight for justice for you and to ensure that other families don't have to endure this horrific tragedy.