Bill > S01946

This bill modifies the criminal procedure law to expand the circumstances under which certain syringe-related drug possession convictions can be expunged (legally erased from a person's criminal record). Specifically, the bill amends section 160.50 of the criminal procedure law to add a new provision that allows for the expungement of convictions related to former section 220.45 of the penal law, which likely refers to an older statute concerning criminally possessing a hypodermic instrument. The change means that individuals who were previously convicted under this older law can now have their records cleared, similar to how convictions for other specific drug possession offenses (defined in sections 222.10, 222.15, 222.25, or 222.45 of the penal law) can already be expunged. The bill will go into effect 180 days after it becomes law, giving time for legal systems and agencies to prepare for implementing the new expungement provisions. This change represents a further step in criminal justice reform, potentially helping individuals with past drug-related convictions remove barriers to employment, housing, and other opportunities.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1946