Bill > S00477

This bill increases the penalty for rape in the first degree from a class B felony to a class A-II felony, which represents a more severe criminal classification. The bill modifies Section 130.35 of the penal law by changing the language from gendered terms like "he or she" to the gender-neutral "such person" and upgrading the felony classification. The law defines rape in the first degree as occurring under several specific circumstances, including engaging in sexual contact (vaginal, oral, or anal) by forcible compulsion, with a person who is physically helpless, with a person less than eleven years old, or with a person less than thirteen years old when the perpetrator is eighteen years old or older. The change from a class B to a class A-II felony signifies that the legal system is treating this crime with increased severity, which typically means longer potential prison sentences and more significant criminal penalties. The modification takes effect immediately upon enactment.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S477