Bill > S00416

This bill introduces the "Keep Police Radio Public Act" which requires law enforcement agencies in New York State that choose to encrypt their radio communications to ensure that all communications remain accessible in real-time to emergency services organizations and professional journalists, with the exception of sensitive information. The bill defines key terms such as "emergency services organization" (non-governmental agencies providing emergency relief), "encryption" (encoding voice communications to prevent monitoring), and "sensitive information" (communications that could compromise legal proceedings, criminal investigations, or investigative techniques). If a law enforcement agency encrypts its radio communications, it must work with the Department of State to establish a credentialing process that allows emergency services and journalists to access these communications within five business days. The Department of State is tasked with creating rules and standards to implement these requirements, and the law will take effect 90 days after its passage. The primary goal is to maintain transparency in public safety communications while protecting certain confidential or potentially prejudicial information.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S416