Bill > S01209

This bill eliminates mandatory minimum sentences in New York State and introduces more flexible sentencing guidelines. The Marvin Mayfield Act revises the state's penal code to give judges greater discretion in sentencing by removing previously mandated minimum prison terms for various offenses. Key provisions include allowing courts to impose definite sentences of less than one year for many felonies, requiring courts to explain their sentencing decisions in writing, and modifying the goals of sentencing to emphasize rehabilitation and community reintegration over strict punishment. The bill removes several existing statutes related to mandatory sentencing for repeat offenders and drug crimes, and allows courts to consider factors like domestic violence history and individual circumstances when determining appropriate sentences. Additionally, the legislation requires pre-sentence reports to include an analysis of the financial cost of incarceration and gives defendants more opportunities to challenge or correct information in these reports. The changes aim to reduce prison populations, promote rehabilitation, and provide more individualized approaches to criminal sentencing.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1209