Bill > S00111

This bill amends the New York civil rights law to establish strict confidentiality protections for personnel records of police officers, firefighters, correction officers, and probation officers. Under the new section 50-a, personnel records used for evaluating job performance or promotion will be considered confidential and cannot be inspected or reviewed without the explicit written consent of the individual officer. If someone seeks access to these records through a court order, a judge must first review the request, provide an opportunity for interested parties to be heard, and only issue an order with a clear showing of sufficient facts. If the judge decides there is a valid basis for the request, they must review the records privately and only release portions that are deemed relevant and material to the specific case. The bill includes an exception for certain government officials and agencies who may require these records for official functions, such as district attorneys, attorneys general, and other legal representatives. The legislation aims to protect the privacy of law enforcement and public safety personnel while still allowing for appropriate legal scrutiny when necessary.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S111