Bill > A00679

This bill establishes a new criminal offense called "coercive control" in New York state law, which would make it a class E felony for a person to engage in a systematic pattern of behavior against a family or household member that limits or restricts the victim's behavior, movement, social connections, or financial autonomy without their consent. The bill defines lack of consent as occurring through forcible compulsion or when the victim fears that refusing will result in further restrictions. Importantly, the law specifically excludes certain legal arrangements from being considered coercive control, such as power of attorney, guardianship, or parental control of a minor child. The legislation aims to provide legal protection against subtle forms of domestic abuse that may not rise to the level of physical violence but still significantly restrict an individual's personal freedom and autonomy within a household relationship.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A679