A New York State office dedicated to preventing gun violence has been codified into state law. This week, Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation making the New York State Office of Gun Violence Prevention (OGVP) permanent through the 2025-2026 state budget. OGVP, which was originally established by executive order in 2021, is housed within the Division of Criminal Justice Services and leads the state's efforts to coordinate violence reduction strategies among state and local agencies, analyze data and support community organizations that serve individuals affected by gun violence.
Hochul says the milestone comes as federal support for gun violence prevention efforts have been disrupted and dismantled. New York becomes the first state to enshrine such an office since the Trump Administration closed the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention.
Photo by Governor Kathy Hochul's Office
