On June 9, 2020, the state Assembly and state Senate began passing a package of state criminal justice reform legislation in Albany. Governor Cuomo pledged that as soon as these bills pass the State Legislature he will sign them into law.

In response, New York State United Teachers President Andy Pallotta and UFT President Michael Mulgrew released the following joint statement:

This legislative package represents a positive step toward a more equitable, transparent criminal justice system. We thank the Legislature and governor for working quickly to address calls for reform. But make no mistake, our work as a society is not done. Legislative reforms are part of this process, but as long as racism remains pervasive, we must not quiet our voices. As educators, we have a duty and responsibility to work for a better, fairer and more just world for our students. Our hearts remain heavy, but together we grieve, together we heal and together we rise.