Mayor Adams Vetoes NYC Bill Decriminalizing Illegal Street Vending

New York City Mayor Eric Adams vetoed the City Council's bill known as Intro 47-B, which aimed to decriminalize illegal street vending by reclassifying license and permit offenses as violations punishable only by fines, not jail time. Adams argued the bill undermines law enforcement's ability to address quality-of-life issues, protect small business owners, and maintain public health and safety, emphasizing the importance of police intervention against unlicensed vendors. The bill passed the City Council with a veto-proof majority and supporters, including immigrant rights advocates and council members, plan to override the veto, viewing the criminal penalties as disproportionately harmful to immigrant vendors and minorities. Critics also contend that the veto aligns with President Trump's mass deportation policies, putting vulnerable immigrant communities at greater risk. The City Council highlighted that criminal misdemeanor charges against vendors create barriers to education, employment, housing, and jeopardize immigration status, while the NYPD increased criminal vending tickets significantly in recent years. The ongoing dispute reflects broader tensions over immigration, public safety, and the city's approach to street vending enforcement amid Adams' re-election campaign focusing on law and order.