Webber supports expanding security funding to stop hate crimes

TRENTON, N.J. – Assemblyman Jay Webber expressed today his support for expanding funding and easing restrictions on grants given to nonprofits that are at a high-risk of hate crimes or terrorist attacks, such as synagogues, churches, mosques, and community centers.

“A primary responsibility of government is protecting its citizens,” stated Webber (R-Morris).  “In the wake of the horrific anti-Semitic hate crime in Pittsburgh and because of the disturbing increase in anti-Semitic acts of violence in America that responsibility is becoming a more urgent priority every day.”

In 2017, anti-Semitic crimes rose by 32 percent in New Jersey according to the Anti-Defamation League.

The Assembly will vote today on a bill that would increase security grants for nonprofits to $50,000, which can be used to purchase target-hardening equipment such as bullet proof windows and doors.  The grants, which Assemblyman Webber supported last year, are currently capped at $10,000 and can only be used for personnel.