Bill > A00151

This bill expands the existing criminal procedure law to include all hate crimes as a qualifying offense for court determinations regarding a defendant's pre-trial release. Previously, the law was limited to specific crimes like third-degree assault and third-degree arson when charged as hate crimes. Now, the bill broadens the scope to include "any crime" charged as a hate crime, as defined in section 485.05 of the penal law. This means that for any criminal offense designated as a hate crime, courts will have specific considerations when deciding whether to release a defendant on their own recognizance, set non-monetary conditions, or determine bail. The change applies to multiple sections of the criminal procedure law, effectively ensuring that all hate crimes receive heightened judicial scrutiny during the pre-trial phase, regardless of the underlying criminal charge. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage, signaling the legislature's intent to quickly implement these expanded protections and judicial guidelines.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A151