Bill > A00621

This bill amends the criminal procedure law to expand support options for vulnerable elderly persons during grand jury proceedings. Currently, child witnesses under 12 can be accompanied by support professionals like social workers or counselors during certain types of criminal proceedings. The new legislation allows social workers or informal caregivers to accompany vulnerable elderly persons during grand jury proceedings for any type of offense, provided the district attorney gives consent. The support person is required to take an oath of confidentiality and cannot participate in the proceeding by answering questions or interfering with testimony. Key terms in the bill include "vulnerable elderly person" (as defined in the penal law) and "informal caregiver" (as defined in the elder law). The bill aims to provide emotional support and comfort to elderly witnesses during potentially stressful legal proceedings, similar to existing protections for child witnesses, while maintaining the integrity of the grand jury process.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A621