Bill > S02295

This bill requires enhanced training for both police officers and child protective services workers in New York State, specifically focusing on sexual assault and child abuse cases. For police officers, the bill mandates that the state council develop comprehensive training programs for all officers covering topics such as understanding rape and sexual abuse trauma, psychological impacts on victims, offender characteristics, evidence gathering techniques, interview methods, and available victim support services. This training will be integrated into basic police academy curricula and include provisions for periodic retraining. For child protective services workers, the bill requires the Office of Children and Family Services to establish training standards that include investigatory techniques for sexual abuse cases, with mandatory ongoing training. The training will be designed to improve worker skills in investigating child abuse reports, understanding legal issues, and implementing effective prevention and treatment methods. New workers must complete an approved course within their first three months of employment, and from 2025, this training may be conducted through distance learning methods. The bill aims to enhance professional response and support for victims of sexual assault and child abuse by ensuring workers are comprehensively trained and regularly updated on best practices.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S2295