Governor Corzine, Governor Paterson Take Action for Joint New Year's Weekend Security Measures

Press Release

Governor Jon S. Corzine and New York Governor David A. Paterson today announced an agreement allowing New Jersey police officers full law enforcement powers on ferries traveling between New Jersey and New York on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day.

Governor Paterson has signed an executive order extending the authority of New Jersey law enforcement officials to ferries traveling between the two states, including arrest powers while in New York and New York's territorial waters.

"While New Jersey is taking every precaution to assure the safety and security of travelers during this holiday weekend, I am appreciative of the opportunity to join forces with our neighbors in New York to provide seamless security enforcement," said Governor Corzine. "The safety and security of our residents remain our mutual top priority, and with Governor Paterson granting New Jersey officers full law enforcement powers on ferries traveling to and from New York, we are sending a clear message that every possible measure has been taken to protect our citizens."

Extra security measures have been taken throughout New Jersey and New York in light of the recent incident involving Northwest Flight 253. While there have been no known threats in the region, both governor's agreed that extra security measures should be taken as a precaution.

"This Executive Order gives law enforcement the tools they need to provide greater security for ferry travelers," Governor Paterson said. "This decision should not raise concerns, but rather demonstrate that we are working at all levels of government to ensure the safety of New Yorkers. Working with Governor Corzine and New Jersey law enforcement officials, we will continue to take action to protect the security of all New Yorkers during this busy holiday travel season and into the New Year."

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