Bill > S00024

This bill enhances victim rights and participation in the criminal justice process by making two key changes to New York state law. First, the bill expands the methods by which victims can submit impact statements during parole hearings, now explicitly allowing video recordings in addition to written and audio formats, and permitting victims to meet with parole board members either in person or via video conference. Second, the bill requires all members of the parole board and presiding commissioners to thoroughly review all victim impact statements related to an offender's case before conducting a parole hearing, including statements from pre-sentencing reports and those submitted directly to the parole board. Moreover, these board members must now sign a written attestation confirming they have reviewed these statements, ensuring that victim perspectives are carefully considered during parole proceedings. These changes aim to give victims a more robust and flexible way to share their experiences and ensure their input is meaningfully reviewed during critical criminal justice decision-making processes. The bill will take effect 90 days after becoming law, with immediate authorization for preparing necessary implementing regulations.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S24