Bill > S00613

This bill requires police departments and agencies to provide district attorneys' offices with direct access to their electronic record systems for discovery purposes in criminal cases. The legislation aims to address challenges in the discovery process introduced by previous reforms in 2020, which created tight deadlines for collecting and disclosing extensive records. Under the bill, each district attorney's office will receive login credentials to access electronic files, including documents, audio, and video files related to criminal cases. The number of login credentials will be based on the county's population, with larger departments (those serving 100,000 or more residents) required to provide on-site access to their computer systems, while smaller departments must offer access at a convenient police precinct. The login credentials will allow viewing, printing, and downloading of materials but will restrict users from editing or deleting documents. The credentials can be limited to materials specific to active cases. The goal is to improve the efficiency of the discovery process, reduce administrative burdens on prosecutors and law enforcement, and ensure cases are resolved based on their merits rather than procedural complications. The act will take effect 90 days after becoming law.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S613