Bill > S01839

This bill amends the New York State Penal Law to address sexual offenses involving members of the clergy or religious practitioners by expanding the definition of situations where consent is not valid. Specifically, the bill adds a new provision that makes sexual conduct between a clergy member or religious practitioner and a member of their religious group illegal when such conduct occurs during pastoral counseling services. The bill modifies existing law to clarify that in prosecutions involving sexual offenses, the lack of consent can be established if the victim is a member or adherent of an organized religious group and the actor is a member of the clergy or religious practitioner who commits specific sexual offenses (such as rape in the third degree or sexual abuse) during the provision of pastoral counseling services. Additionally, the bill updates language to make the legal text more gender-neutral by replacing gendered pronouns with more inclusive terminology. The legislation aims to close potential legal loopholes and provide stronger protections against sexual abuse within religious contexts, particularly when there is an inherent power imbalance between the clergy member and the victim. The act will take effect 30 days after it becomes law.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1839