Bill > A00328

This bill addresses the use and disclosure of jailhouse informant testimony in criminal proceedings by establishing new requirements for prosecutors. The bill defines a "jailhouse informant" as an incarcerated person who provides testimony about statements made by a suspected offender or defendant, and a "benefit" as any form of leniency or reward offered in exchange for testimony. Prosecutors will now be required to disclose comprehensive information about jailhouse informants to the defense, including their complete criminal history, any promises or inducements made, details of statements allegedly given, any previous recantations, and information about other cases where the informant has testified. The bill prohibits prosecutors from offering dismissals of serious crimes in exchange for testimony and requires judicial consent before offering benefits to informants. Additionally, prosecutors must maintain a statewide database of jailhouse informant information and are obligated to make reasonable efforts to notify victims of crimes committed by an informant when the informant is offered benefits in exchange for testimony. The goal of these provisions is to increase transparency, protect defendants' rights, and ensure that victims are informed about potentially problematic testimony arrangements. The bill will take effect 90 days after becoming law.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A328