Elly Morillo

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Aug 13, 2024, 10:20 PM

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Updated

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A bill introduced in 2020 is back on the table and it would require police officers to get personal liability insurance in case of lawsuits.

The comptroller's office says lawsuits against police officers increased 50% between the 2022 and 2023 fiscal years.

"If an officer or any other person commits any kind of mistake, their insurance should be the one to pay for it," a Bronx resident told News 12.

News 12 requested an interview with State Sen. Nathalia Fernandez, who introduced the bill, but were sent a prepared statement that said in part, "This insurance helps officers perform their duties with greater confidence and security. It also motivates police departments to uphold high standards, leading to improved practices and lower insurance premiums that benefit everyone."

The Police Benevolent Association released a statement to News 12 that said in part, "Under this bill, those settlements would hit cops in the pocket. Requiring already underpaid cops to pay for liability insurance will chase away recruits and drive even more experienced cops towards the exits. If the City Council really cared about saving money, it would demand that the city start fighting suits against cops instead of settling."

The bill is currently in the Senate. If it passes, it will need to be signed into law by the governor before it goes into effect.