Fugitive Slaves. An act is now under discussion in the Legislature of New York, whose provisions are similar to the law of Pennsylvania, in relation to the apprehension of fugitive slaves. It lays severe penalties on any State, or municipal officer or citizen, who may assist in arresting a colored man on the ground that he is a fugitive slave, thus leaving the apprehension of slaves to the United States officers and Courts entirely. The bill is entitled, ‘an act for the protection of personal liberty.’
(Liberator, Feb 9, 1849, pg 4)