Cuomo Announces New Actions To Combat Hate Crimes

Governor Andrew Cuomo has announced new actions to combat hate crimes and anti-Semitism across New York State.

The measures include a $25 million grant program to boost safety and security at New York schools and day care centers that are at risk of hate crimes.

A $5,000 reward is also being made available fro any information leading to an arrest and conviction for a hate crime.

New Yorkers can text "HATE' to 81336 to report incidents of bias and discrimination.

"New York must always be the beacon of tolerance and hope for all, and with the recent explosion of anti-Semitism and hate crimes, it is more important than ever before that we do everything in our power to ensure the safety and equal treatment of all New Yorkers," Cuomo said. "Any acts of bias or discrimination will be met with the full force of the law. New York is and always has been a place that celebrates diversity and religious tolerance, and we say to all New Yorkers who feel unsafe – we will always protect you."

Cuomo made the announcement following a roundtable with over 50 religious leaders from across the state, including members representing the Christian, Jewish and Muslim faiths.