Bill > A01059

This bill increases the severity of criminal penalties for prescription medication-related offenses by upgrading the classification of several existing crimes in the New York Penal Law. Specifically, criminal diversion of prescription medications (which typically involves illegally redirecting or misusing prescription drugs) will now be classified as more serious felonies: fourth-degree diversion changes from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class E felony, third-degree diversion changes from a Class E to a Class D felony, second-degree diversion changes from a Class D to a Class C felony, and first-degree diversion changes from a Class C to a Class B felony. Additionally, the bill upgrades the classification of criminal sale of a prescription for a controlled substance by a practitioner or pharmacist from a Class C to a Class B felony. These changes suggest a legislative intent to treat prescription medication crimes more seriously, likely in response to ongoing concerns about prescription drug abuse and illegal distribution. The bill will take effect on the first of November following its passage into law.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1059