Bill > S00805

This bill directs the superintendent of state police, in consultation with the office of children and family services, to develop and implement comprehensive written policies and procedures for child-sensitive arrest practices when law enforcement arrests a parent, guardian, or person legally responsible for a child under 18 years old. The policies must include several key components: procedures for identifying and documenting whether an arrestee has childcare responsibilities, methods to help arrange temporary care for the child, which may include allowing additional phone calls to arrange childcare, strategies for law enforcement to minimize the emotional harm children may experience when witnessing an arrest, and information about community-based resources like crisis intervention and child protection services that can support children in these challenging situations. The bill amends existing executive law and criminal procedure law to ensure that state and local law enforcement officers take appropriate, practicable actions to protect and support children during a parent's or guardian's arrest, with the overarching goal of reducing the potential trauma and disruption such an event can cause to a child's immediate wellbeing and sense of security.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S805