Bill > S06615

This bill amends the Penal Law in New York to provide new standards and limitations on the use of force by police officers and peace officers. The key provisions of the bill are: 1) It clarifies the circumstances under which deadly physical force can be used, requiring that the officer have probable cause to believe the person has committed a felony involving death or serious bodily injury, and that the person is armed, would cause further serious injury if not apprehended, and that no less-lethal force alternatives are sufficient. 2) It establishes new criminal offenses for "excessive use of force" by police officers, at the third, second, and first degree levels, based on the degree of force used and the resulting injury or death to the person. These range from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class C felony. 3) It provides guidance on when physical force is considered "necessary," requiring officers to use de-escalation tactics and less-lethal force alternatives where reasonable before resorting to physical force. The bill aims to set clearer standards and accountability for the use of force by law enforcement in New York.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2021/S6615