Statement by Real Estate Board of New York President James Whelan Regarding the Repeal of 50-A

NEW YORK, NY – New York State today repealed Section 50-A of the New York State Civil Rights Law Code relating to the transparency of law enforcement disciplinary records. Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY) President James Whelan issued the following statement on the passing of this legislation:

“REBNY has reached out to many elected officials, community organizations and leaders in the Black community to listen. We heard overwhelmingly the importance of repealing 50-A to provide meaningful transparency and restore confidence in fair law enforcement within the Black community and other communities of color. We share our support for this reform, but we also know mere public support isn’t enough. We will continue to listen, engage and increasingly do our part in providing meaningful actions to address long-overdue issues that have impacted the Black community.

“We thank the State Legislature and Speaker Heastie, Senate Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins, Senator Bailey and Assembly Member O’Donnell for their leadership in passing this legislature and applaud Governor Cuomo for quickly signing this important reform into law. We will continue to listen and interact with an ever-increasing number of elected officials, community groups and leaders so we can support meaningful changes likes these in the future.”

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ABOUT THE REAL ESTATE BOARD OF NEW YORK

The Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY) is the City’s leading real estate trade association. Founded in 1896, REBNY represents commercial, residential, and institutional property owners, builders, managers, investors, brokers, and salespeople; banks, financial service companies, utilities, attorneys, architects, and contractors; corporations, co-partnerships, and individuals professionally interested in New York City real estate. REBNY conducts research on various civic matters including tax policy, city planning and zoning, rental conditions, land use policy, building codes, and other city, state, and federal legislation. REBNY regularly publishes market data, policy reports, and broker surveys. In addition, REBNY provides for its members: informational, technical, and technological resources; networking and charitable service opportunities; qualifying and continuing education courses; professional education programs, seminars, and designations; career-changing awards; legal advice; and a wide range of additional member benefits. For more information, please visit www.REBNY.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Beth Miller
press@rebny.com
(212) 616-5223