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New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams and Council Member Crystal Hudson have introduced the Aland Etienne Safety and Security Act, honoring the life of Aland Etienne, a 32BJ SEIU security officer who was killed in the July 2025 Midtown shooting while protecting the lobby of 345 Park Avenue. The new legislation calls for higher pay, better benefits, and stronger safety training for security officers who risk their lives daily to protect New Yorkers.
The bill, known as Introduction 1391, would create a dedicated division within the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection to oversee workplace conditions for security guards. This new division would enforce minimum pay standards, provide for sick and vacation leave, require safety and crisis training, and establish a Security Guard Advocate to address violations and protect workers’ rights.
At the press conference introducing the legislation, Speaker Adams spoke of Etienne as more than a security guard, but as a beloved family man and protector. “Security officers like Aland are integral to New York City’s public safety infrastructure,” she said. “Too often they are not compensated or treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. This legislation will help ensure they are recognized for the critical role they play.”
Council Member Hudson echoed the call for change. “Security officers are not just building staff. They are first responders in moments of crisis,” she said. “Yet they are too often underpaid and denied the training that could save their lives and ours. Let us remember Aland not only in mourning, but in action, by raising standards for security officers across the city.”
Union leaders at 32BJ SEIU praised the bill and highlighted the risks security officers face every day. They described Etienne as a hero who sacrificed his life to protect others and reminded New Yorkers that the people who guard office buildings, apartments, and public spaces are on the frontlines of emergencies but often go overlooked.
On July 28, 2025, Etienne was on duty in the lobby of 345 Park Avenue when a gunman entered and opened fire. Etienne was killed while trying to prevent the shooter from reaching others. His death left a deep void in his family and the broader community.
At his funeral, Etienne was remembered as a devoted father, son, and partner who loved his work and cared for those around him. Family, friends, coworkers, and city leaders gathered to honor his bravery and his commitment to protecting lives.
Support for His Family
In the wake of the tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign titled Support Aland Etienne’s Kids after the Tragedy was launched to provide for his two children. The fundraiser has received an outpouring of support from the public, with donations going toward the children’s future, education, and care. The campaign can be found here: Support Aland Etienne’s Kids after the Tragedy.
The introduction of the Aland Etienne Safety and Security Act seeks to transform grief into change. By setting fair pay standards, ensuring benefits, and requiring stronger training for security officers, the city aims to prevent future tragedies and honor the sacrifices of workers like Etienne.
For his family, his coworkers, and all of New York City, the bill represents more than legislation. It is a promise that Aland Etienne’s sacrifice will not be forgotten, and that his name will stand as a symbol of courage, dignity, and justice for security officers across the city.
