Thompson board schedules July hearing on 'aggressive' panhandling law after constitutional concerns raised
Summary
The Town Board authorized a public hearing on a proposed local law targeting 'aggressive' panhandling for July 7, 2026, after members and the town attorney discussed First Amendment protections; the resolution passed 4–1 with one 'No' vote.
The Town Board voted on May 19, 2026 to hold a public hearing on Proposed Local Law No. 03, a draft ordinance to add Chapter 171 addressing 'Panhandling, Aggressive.' The hearing will be held July 7, 2026 at 7:00 PM at Town Hall.
During discussion Councilman John A. Pavese and Councilman Richard L. Benjamin, Jr. raised concerns about protecting individuals’ rights to panhandle; Town Attorney Michael B. Mednick advised that panhandling itself is protected speech under the Constitution but that the proposed law focuses on defining and prohibiting 'aggressive' conduct. The board authorized the July hearing by a 4–1 vote (Benjamin voted No).
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