David Lombardo is reporting for Capitol Confidential a new state law will allow municipalities to impose community service as a penalty for local crimes. Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo August 24, signed the measure amending the law governing what punishments can be imposed for violations of local law. Local governing bodies can now pass local laws that are punishable by community service. A judge in these cases were previously limited to imposing a civil penalty, fine, forfeiture or imprisonment. The legislation included language ensuring that community service would not take the place of work done by public employees. Read the full story at Capitol Confidential