Bill > A00296

This bill, known as the "New York State Phoenix Act," extends the statute of limitations for reporting family offenses, allowing victims more time to seek justice. Specifically, the bill increases the time frame for prosecuting felony family offenses from the current limit to ten years, and misdemeanor family offenses to five years. The legislation is grounded in extensive findings about domestic violence, including statistics on its prevalence and the unique challenges faced by victims, particularly in communities of color. The bill also mandates comprehensive, trauma-informed training for law enforcement that includes understanding the complex dynamics of domestic violence, recognizing cultural contexts, and providing sensitive support to victims. Additionally, the bill requires police training to address systemic issues like racial disparities in law enforcement interactions and the disproportionate impacts of domestic violence on marginalized communities. The new provisions aim to create a more supportive legal environment for domestic violence survivors by acknowledging the psychological barriers that often prevent immediate reporting, such as fear of retaliation, immigration concerns, and potential loss of custody. The law will take effect on the first of January following its passage and will apply to both new crimes and existing cases where the previous statute of limitations has not yet expired.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A296