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Rockland County Legislators Congratulated Tiffany Mason On Her Appointment To The Rockland County Community Services Board’s Developmental Disabilities Subcommittee

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Rockland County Legislators congratulated Tiffany Mason after the Multi-Services Committee voted to approve her appointment to the Rockland County Community Services Board’s Developmental Disabilities Subcommittee.
Tiffany was born and raised in Rockland and is the administrative assistant at St. Charles AME Zion Church in Sparkill. She is well known in community circles for her kindness and professionalism, along with her advocacy for people with disabilities. Tiffany’s mother, Monica, and numerous supporters were present for the confirmation vote.
Legislators Toney L. Earl and Aney Paul thanked Tiffany for her willingness to volunteer. Legislator Dana G. Stilley has known Tiffany for some time and urged her to apply to join the committee.
“I’m so grateful that you recognized and stood up and answered the call to serve on this committee,” Legislator Stilley said. “You and I have shared a lot of your own personal journey and I’m confident that you will be an asset to the committee, and therefore an asset to this county, and we appreciate you for your service.”
The County Executive appointed Tiffany to the committee. The Legislature is responsible for confirming all such appointments. The full board is expected to vote in favor of the appointment when it meets on May 21.
The Developmental Disabilities Subcommittee advises the county Mental Health Department and the County Executive’s Office as part of the Department’s work to plan, develop and oversee services for people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities.

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Report Litterbugs in Rockland County Through Keep Rockland Beautiful Program

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Littering is illegal and can result in fines for those who commit the offense. Some litterbugs simply need to be informed and reminded that littering — whether deliberate or unintentional — can end with a personal commitment to stop.

The Keep Rockland Beautiful Report-A-Litterbug Program encourages the public to report people who litter in an effort to help make Rockland County’s roadways cleaner. The program provides every individual with an opportunity to be an active participant in reducing litter.

If you see someone littering from their car, or trash blowing out from the back of a truck, the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office will send the vehicle owner a warning letter based on your report to Keep Rockland Beautiful.

To report a litterbug, visit: Keep Rockland Beautiful Report-A-Litterbug Program

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Senate Approves Bill Expanding SPCA Fingerprinting Access

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A bipartisan bill sponsored by Pete Harckham aimed at helping SPCAs across New York more effectively investigate and prosecute animal cruelty cases has passed the State Senate unanimously.

The legislation, S.1664, would authorize SPCA officers statewide to access the same live scan fingerprinting system currently used by law enforcement agencies following an arrest. Supporters say the measure would streamline arrest processing, improve officer efficiency, and help prevent suspects from avoiding prosecution.

At present, many SPCA officers in New York must rely on outside law enforcement agencies to process fingerprints after making an arrest, often causing delays.

“SPCA officers must have the tools and resources they need to protect defenseless animals from cruelty and neglect and the public at large from serial abusers,” Harckham said in a statement. “With access to live scan fingerprinting, officers can quickly determine whether a suspect has a history of abuse or is wanted for other crimes.”

Harckham said the legislation was inspired by conversations with officers from the Putnam County SPCA, who reported that delays in fingerprint processing sometimes allowed suspects with outstanding warrants to remain free longer than necessary.

Chief Ken Ross of the Putnam County SPCA praised the bill’s passage, noting the connection between animal cruelty and other violent crimes.

“Animal cruelty crimes are especially disturbing because they target the most vulnerable,” Ross said. “These offenses are often linked to other forms of violence, including child abuse and domestic violence.”

According to supporters of the legislation, animal cruelty cases have increased across New York since the COVID-19 pandemic. SPCAs cite rising living costs, behavioral health challenges, and the expiration of eviction protections as contributing factors.

Data from Humane Society International indicates that 85% of individuals arrested for animal cruelty have prior arrests, many involving felony offenses. The organization also reports significant overlap between domestic violence and animal abuse cases.

If enacted into law, the bill would expand investigative capabilities for SPCAs statewide and strengthen coordination between animal welfare agencies and law enforcement officials.

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