New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani is facing backlash after issuing his first veto to block a bipartisan bill designed to strengthen security measures around educational facilities in response to rising antisemitism. The legislation would have required city law enforcement to develop safety plans aimed at preventing physical obstruction, injury, intimidation, and interference outside schools while preserving the right to peaceful protest.

Supporters of the measure, including City Council Speaker Julie Menin, said it was part of a broader action plan to combat antisemitism. Data cited by council leaders showed that antisemitic incidents accounted for a majority of reported hate crimes in the city, despite Jewish residents making up a much smaller share of the population. The bill passed the council by a 30 to 19 vote.

Mamdani defended his veto, arguing that the bill’s broad definition of educational facilities could infringe on constitutional rights and restrict protests at a wide range of locations, including universities, museums, and teaching hospitals. Critics, including former Governor Andrew Cuomo and several advocacy groups, accused the mayor of prioritizing political allies over student safety and urged the council to override the veto.

Under the city charter, the council can override a mayoral veto with a two-thirds vote. If supporters maintain their previous backing, they would need three additional votes to enact the legislation despite the mayor’s objection.