Bill > S00505

This bill modifies the penal law regarding the concealment and/or mutilation of a human corpse by broadening the definition of the crime and clarifying its legal treatment. Specifically, the bill removes previous language that limited the offense to situations involving expected use of a corpse as evidence, and instead makes it a crime to conceal, alter, mutilate, or destroy a human corpse or part of a corpse, regardless of intent. The bill explicitly exempts certain professional practices from prosecution, including organ donation (as authorized under public health law) and the lawful activities of funeral directors, undertakers, and embalmers. The offense is classified as a class E felony. Additionally, the bill amends several sections of the criminal procedure law to include concealment and/or mutilation of a human corpse as a specific consideration in bail and release conditions, meaning that individuals charged with this crime may face more stringent bail requirements. These changes aim to provide clearer legal guidelines and potentially more serious consequences for improper handling of human remains.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S505