Bill > S00032

This bill modifies the New York Criminal Procedure Law to provide courts with additional guidance on setting bail for defendants who may pose a public safety risk. Specifically, the bill expands the factors courts must consider when determining bail, adding a new provision that allows courts to make an individualized assessment based on a defendant's prior felony convictions, history of failing to appear in court, or arrests during the period between a preliminary hearing and trial. The bill maintains the existing requirement that courts explain their bail determination on the record, and continues to require courts to consider multiple factors such as the defendant's criminal history, current charges, previous court appearances, potential flight risk, financial circumstances, history of violence, firearm possession, and the potential harm caused by the alleged offense. The changes aim to give judges more flexibility in assessing a defendant's potential risk to public safety when making bail decisions, potentially allowing for stricter securing orders in cases with significant prior criminal involvement or repeated court non-compliance.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S32