Bill > A00413

This bill amends the New York State Penal Law to expand the definition of unlawful surveillance in the first degree, which is currently a class D felony. The existing law already considers it a first-degree offense if someone commits unlawful surveillance and has been previously convicted of the same crime within the past ten years. The bill adds two new scenarios that would elevate unlawful surveillance to a first-degree offense: first, when the surveillance is committed against a person who has an active order of protection, and second, when the surveillance is committed with the intent to benefit someone who has an active order of protection against the person being surveilled. An order of protection is a legal document issued by a court to protect an individual from harassment, stalking, or potential violence. By expanding the definition, the bill aims to provide additional legal protections for individuals who are already vulnerable and have sought court-ordered protection from another person. The new provisions will take effect 90 days after the bill becomes law.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A413