ALBANY, NY – Senator Steve Rhoads and Assemblyman Jake Blumencranz recently hosted a bipartisan press conference at the New York State Capitol to welcome members of the Nassau County Police Department Explorers Program to Albany. Senator Rhoads also provided the Explorers with a private tour of the Senate chamber and recognized them on the Senate floor during a legislative session.

The event highlighted Assemblyman Blumencranz and Senator Rhoads’ legislation—the Nassau County Future Protectors Act (A.11011/S.712)—which aims to strengthen the pipeline of future law enforcement professionals by providing civil service exam credits to dedicated program participants.

The press conference also honored outstanding youth leaders within the Explorers Program, as well as a distinguished alumnus who has gone on to serve in federal law enforcement, demonstrating the program’s proven track record of developing the next generation of public safety professionals. 

The Nassau County Law Enforcement Explorers Program is widely recognized as a model initiative that fosters leadership, discipline, and community engagement among young people from diverse backgrounds. Participants receive hands-on training, mentorship from law enforcement professionals, and opportunities to develop critical life skills—preparing them for careers in policing and beyond.

Senator Steve Rhoads said, “The Future Protectors Act is about investing in the next generation of law enforcement professionals and creating a stronger, more prepared pipeline for those who are committed to serving their communities. By providing civil service exam credits to participants who complete these programs, we are recognizing their dedication and giving them a meaningful pathway into public service. This legislation not only encourages young people to step forward, but also helps ensure our law enforcement agencies are staffed by individuals who are trained, motivated, and deeply connected to the communities they will serve. It’s a smart, forward-looking approach that strengthens public safety while opening doors of opportunity for New Yorkers ready to make a difference.”

“This program is one of the most effective pipelines we have for developing the next generation of law enforcement leaders,” said Assemblyman Blumencranz. “These young men and women are learning discipline, leadership, and a deep commitment to service at an early age. The Nassau County Future Protectors Act ensures that their hard work is recognized and rewarded with a meaningful, earned advantage as they pursue careers in public safety.”

Under the proposed legislation:

· Explorers who complete four or more years of service would receive five additional points on competitive civil service exams.

· Explorers with less than four years of service would receive two additional points.

· These credits would be applied after candidates qualify for the exam and would be reflected on eligible civil service lists.

The bill carries no fiscal impact to the State and provides a commonsense incentive to encourage participation in a program that already delivers measurable results for communities and public safety.

“This is about rewarding merit, strengthening recruitment, and investing in young people who have already demonstrated a commitment to serving others,” Blumencranz added. “At a time when departments across the state are facing recruitment challenges, we should be doing everything we can to support proven pathways like this one.”

The event featured remarks from elected officials, law enforcement leaders, and Explorers themselves, underscoring the life-changing impact of the program and the importance of expanding opportunities for those committed to careers in public safety.