Former Governor David Paterson is advocating for the reinstatement of a ban on masks in public in order to deter criminals who wear masks to hide their identities. He believes that civil libertarians should not stand in the way of this law and that exceptions should be made for those wearing masks for religious, health, cultural, or holiday reasons. Paterson highlights the support for reviving this ban from both Governor Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Eric Adams.
The campaign to bring back the mask ban has gained momentum following recent incidents of masked individuals committing crimes and spreading hate. Masked vandals have targeted the home of the director of the Brooklyn Museum and made disturbing comments on a Manhattan subway car. Masked moped drivers have also been involved in various robberies across the city. State Attorney General Letitia James supports the effort to unveil criminals and haters who hide behind masks.
Paterson commends the efforts of Mayor Adams and the NYPD to address the reckless behavior of moped drivers. He believes that individuals who engage in criminal activity on bikes should face consequences. However, he acknowledges that New Yorkers still feel unsafe compared to years past. Paterson hopes that continued progress by law enforcement will help improve the safety and security of the city.
Addressing another contentious issue in New York, Paterson expresses doubt that Governor Hochul will approve the $15 congestion toll to enter Midtown south of 60th Street after the November election. Hochul recently suspended the toll, citing concerns about the cost burden on New Yorkers. Paterson suggests that Hochul may be seeking alternative approaches to funding the MTA instead of reviving the congestion pricing scheme.
Paterson believes that the original champions of congestion pricing, former Mayor Mike Bloomberg and ex-Governor Andrew Cuomo, have realized that the toll may not have been the best decision for the city. He suggests that political motivations may have played a role in the timing of the suspension and potential reinstatement of the congestion toll. Paterson emphasizes the need for Hochul to explore alternative methods of financing the MTA without burdening New Yorkers with additional costs.
In conclusion, Paterson’s support for the ban on masks in public reflects concerns about public safety and security, particularly in light of recent incidents involving masked individuals. He urges civil libertarians to consider the practical implications of such a law and supports efforts to unveil criminals and hate groups who use masks to conceal their identities. Paterson also questions the feasibility and impact of the proposed congestion toll, suggesting that Governor Hochul may need to find alternative solutions for funding the MTA.
