West Hudson Valley News

Assemblyman Chris Tague (R,C-Schoharie) and Sen. Peter Oberacker (R,C-51st District) are celebrating the passage of their bill, A.6738A/S.6798A, which allows local courts in Delaware, Otsego, and Schoharie counties to permit defendants to appear via virtual methods for arraignments at the courts’ discretion. This policy is a continuation from the COVID-19 pandemic when it was necessary to maintain social distance for public health. The new law aims to save time and resources for local courts.

“It’s an issue rural communities have been championing since the end of the pandemic, and through bipartisan cooperation in government, we were able to pass a bill that serves local interests. I couldn’t be prouder of the work done here,” Tague said. “I want to thank my colleague, Sen. Oberacker, for his partnership in bringing this bill to the floor, as well as Governor Hochul for signing it into law. And many thanks, of course, to the local advocates and partners who all made their voices heard throughout this process. We couldn’t have done it without you.”

Sen. Oberacker expressed similar sentiments: “I am deeply proud to see this crucial legislation signed into law. It’s a transformative step that addresses a giant need in our rural communities while saving valuable time and resources while enhancing the safety and security for our judicial system. Thank you to Assemblyman Tague for your leadership in the Assembly, Governor Hochul for her decisive action on this bill, and to our local partners and advocates who were crucial in making this significant change a reality.”

Schoharie County Sheriff Ron Stevens stated, "I'm thankful for the partnership with Assemblyman Tague and Senator Oberacker to get this law established in New York. Courts in Schoharie County can now move more efficiently and operate with less overhead as a result of this change, and I know the local courts are grateful for the support."

Schoharie County District Attorney Susan Mallery added, “I would like to thank Assemblyman Tague, Sen. Peter Oberacker, the legislature and Governor Hochul. New York State’s rural counties are struggling with staffing shortages. This law helps local governments run more efficiently with the staffing available while protecting all rights of the accused.”

Delaware County Sheriff Craig DuMond remarked on the significance of this legislative change: “Today marks a crucial victory for the law enforcement community in Delaware County. This bill empowers us to combat crime more effectively in an era where too many laws are tipping the scales in favor of criminals.”

Delaware County District Attorney Shawn Smith emphasized safety benefits: “We have reached a significant milestone today with the signing of Senator Oberacker and Assemblyman Tague’s electronic appearance bill. This legislation is a triumph for the safety of our officers of the court and local law enforcement by reducing massive risks associated with transporting criminals while also saving taxpayer dollars.”

Otsego County Sheriff Richard Devlin commented on both safety and financial benefits: “This bill marks perhaps the first time in recent memory that legislation has been signed that both benefits taxpayers while enhancing community safety.”

Otsego County District Attorney John Muehl appreciated making temporary measures permanent: “Virtual arraignment court is something we saw deployed temporarily during the height of the pandemic, and I’m happy to see Senator Oberacker and Assemblyman Tague take initiative to make this measure permanent in Otsego County.”

“This measure is poised to save time and resources for our rural courts and communities,” Tague concluded.