Bill > S00578

This bill modifies New York's criminal procedure law to give courts more discretion in setting bail or detaining individuals who have been designated as sex offenders under Article Six-C of the Correction Law. Specifically, the bill allows courts to fix bail or commit a principal (defendant) to the sheriff's custody if the individual has been designated a sex offender, even in cases where the default would typically be release on the principal's own recognizance. Previously, courts were required to release defendants under non-monetary conditions that would reasonably ensure their return to court. The bill adds provisions to multiple sections of the criminal procedure law that reference sex offenders, expanding judicial discretion in handling such cases. These changes apply to various stages of criminal proceedings, including initial release, arraignment, and pre-trial conditions. The bill aims to provide courts with additional tools to manage potential risks associated with defendants who are classified as sex offenders, giving judges more flexibility in determining appropriate bail and custody arrangements. The act will take effect 30 days after becoming law.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S578