Just one day after a powerful blizzard blanketed New York, Kol Yisroel and its dedicated group of young advocates made their third trip to Albany in just five weeks, underscoring their continued push for community safety and education reform.
On February 24th, despite weather and travel challenges, the group remained focused on two key priorities: advancing meaningful safety legislation to protect houses of worship and advocating for a permanent solution to the long-standing issues facing the East Ramapo Central School District, which impact many families in the Monsey community.
Throughout the day, Kol Yisroel representatives met with several key state lawmakers, including Senator Jeremy Zellner (D-61), Assemblymember Daniel Norber (R-16), Assemblymember Steve Stern (D-10), Assemblymember Micah Lasher (D-69), Assemblymember Lester Chang (R-49), and Senator Peter Harckham (D-40).
The most significant meeting of the day took place with Jeffrey Dinowitz, Chair of the Assembly Codes Committee. As the committee responsible for advancing proposed buffer zone legislation aimed at protecting houses of worship, the discussion carried particular importance.
Kol Yisroel conveyed a clear and firm message: the proposed 25-foot buffer zone currently under consideration — introduced by Micah Lasher — does not go far enough. According to the group, a 25-foot distance would not provide adequate protection for entrances and exits or ensure that congregants feel secure when attending services. While the conversation remained respectful, advocates emphasized the need to strengthen the legislation before it moves forward.
The trip concluded with the group attending a public hearing, where the Commissioner of Education testified before a joint legislative session. During the hearing, Senator Bill Weber questioned the commissioner directly about issues affecting the local community, drawing attention to ongoing concerns surrounding East Ramapo.
Before heading home, the group met briefly with Senator Weber to discuss next steps.
Kol Yisroel described the mission as productive and substantive, highlighting meaningful dialogue and forward momentum. With three Albany visits in five weeks, the organization signaled it has no plans of slowing down.
In Albany, advocates say, showing up matters — and Kol Yisroel continues to do just that.
