Us Congress House Bill HB2581

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/13/23
• Refer: 4/13/23

Caption

ALVIN Act Accountability for Lawless Violence In our Neighborhoods Act

Impact

If enacted, HB2581 would significantly impact the fiscal operations of the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office. This prohibition on federal funding could potentially lead to reduced resources for law enforcement, which may have broader implications for public safety and crime control in New York City. Such a measure has raised concerns about how this may affect the office's ability to prosecute crimes effectively. The bill also includes a clause for the reimbursement of federal expenditures made after January 1, 2022, further complicating financial stability for the district attorney's office.

Summary

House Bill 2581, also known as the Accountability for Lawless Violence In our Neighborhoods Act (ALVIN Act), aims to prohibit any federal funds from being awarded to the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office. This bill was introduced with the perspective that the funding of this office should be restricted due to perceived failures in law enforcement and public safety in the Manhattan area, particularly regarding violent crime. The proponents argue that by eliminating federal funding, a message will be sent about accountability in law enforcement practices.

Contention

The bill has sparked debate and contention among lawmakers and community leaders. Supporters might argue that the bill addresses critical issues of accountability and encourages local entities to improve their law enforcement strategies. However, opponents assert that cutting federal support could exacerbate public safety issues in Manhattan, leading to adverse outcomes for communities that rely on effective prosecution and public safety measures. This opposition argues that it could undermine the capacity of the district attorney’s office to function effectively, potentially increasing the crime rate.