Bill > S00308

This bill amends the New York State Penal Law to allow members of the Nassau County auxiliary police force to possess a police baton (a type of law enforcement club typically 24-26 inches long and up to 1.25 inches thick) when specifically authorized by the county police commissioner. The bill expands existing provisions that previously only permitted such baton possession for auxiliary police in New York City and Suffolk County. The authorization comes with important restrictions: the auxiliary police must receive training in baton use, including defensive techniques and legal guidelines for using force, and the baton can only be used in situations where deadly physical force would be legally justified. Specifically, the bill modifies Section 265.20(b) of the penal law to add Nassau County to the list of jurisdictions where auxiliary police can legally carry these batons, ensuring that such possession is strictly regulated and only permitted under controlled circumstances with proper training.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S308