Statement from New York City Council on Mayor Adams’ Veto of Legislation That Allows Survivors of Gender-Motivated & Sexual Violence to Seek Accountability

Bill was passed by the City Council in November with a veto-proof majority

In response to Mayor Adams' Christmas Eve veto of a bill to help victims of gender-motivated violence seek accountability (Introduction 1297-A), the New York City Council issued the following statement from spokesperson Julia Agos:

"Mayor Adams has chosen to use his final days in office to attempt to deny survivors of sexual and gender-motivated violence the opportunity to hold their abusers accountable. There is no excuse for allowing those responsible for violent abuses to escape accountability."

On background:

• The mayor's veto message must be received at the Council's next Stated Meeting, which is scheduled for January. Once the veto is received at that meeting, the clock for the 30-day deadline to override the veto will begin.
• Introduction 1297-A, sponsored by Majority Whip Selvena N. Brooks-Powers, would create a civil cause of action for crimes of violence motivated by gender that occurred prior to January 9, 2022. Any person claiming to be injured by a party who commits, directs, enables, participates, or conspires in the commission of a crime of violence motivated by gender may bring a civil claim against that party. The claims brought under this law must commence within 18 months of the effective date of the local law. Any person who brought a claim between March 1, 2023, and March 1, 2025, that meets the requirements of a cause of action under this law may amend or refile their claim to add a cause of action under this section.

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