Rappers like YNW Melly have been facing the possibility of the courts using their lyrics as evidence in their cases. Now, lawmakers in New York are rallying against the chance of that happening in the state, as they are pushing forth the “rap music on trial” legislation.
Two lawmakers in New York are looking to restrict rap lyrics as evidence in criminal proceedings, saying they shouldn’t be used against defendants unless the lyrics can provide “clear and convincing proof” of a link to the crime committed. Senator Jamaal Bailey and Senator Brad Hoylman pushed the bill forward for consideration, with the intention of providing more explicit protection of first amendment rights for New Yorkers.
Bailey commented on the legislation, saying, “The right to free speech is enshrined in our federal and state constitutions because it is through this right that we can preserve all of our other fundamental rights. The admission of art as criminal evidence only serves to erode this fundamental right, and the use of rap and hip-hop lyrics, in particular, is emblematic of the systemic racism that permeates our criminal justice system.” Stay tuned for more updates.
source: NY Post
