LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to
proclaim May 1-7, 2016, as Juror Appreciation Week in the State of New
York

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize citizens
of New York State who take the time to ensure the foundation of American
Democracy; and
WHEREAS, The right to a trial by jury is one of the core values of
American citizenship; and
WHEREAS, The obligation and privilege to serve as a juror are as
fundamental to our democracy as the right to vote; and
WHEREAS, The right to trial by jury has its roots in English common
law and was included in the Declaration of Independence; and
WHEREAS, The right to trial by jury was enshrined in the Constitution
in Article 3 Section 2 as well as in the 6th Amendment of the Bill of
Rights which guarantees the right to an impartial jury; and
WHEREAS, Service by citizens as jurors is indispensable to the judi-
cial system; and
WHEREAS, All citizens should be encouraged to respond when summoned
for jury service; and
WHEREAS, A continuing and imperative goal for the courts, the bar, and
the broader community is to ensure that jury selection and jury service
are fair, effective, and not unduly burdensome on anyone; and
WHEREAS, One of the most significant actions a court system can take
is to show appreciation for the jury system and for the hundreds of
thousands of citizens who annually give their time and talents to serve
on juries; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorializing Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim May 1-7, 2016, as
Juror Appreciation Week in the State of New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New
York.