"The first of five bills before me today is Introductory Number 721-A, sponsored by Council members Vallone, Nelson, Gerson, Garodnick, Jackson, Mealy and Como. Introductory Number 721-A prohibits climbing, jumping, or suspending oneself from structures without the approval of the Police Department and the owner of the structure.

"The appeal of 'BASE' jumping, which stands for Building, Antenna, Span, or Earth, is the practice of climbing, jumping or suspending yourself from any structure, has grown in prominence over the past few years. Recent high-profile stunts in Manhattan have brought both the appeal and the danger of this hobby to light. Valuable City resources are dedicated to responding to these events; resources that could be better utilized to respond to other emergencies.

"I would like to thank Police Commissioner Ray Kelly and his staff for their work on this bill. I would also like to thank the City Council for approving this legislation."