Bill > S03040

This bill addresses the former crime of loitering for the purpose of engaging in prostitution by providing a comprehensive process for vacating, dismissing, and expunging related criminal records. Specifically, the bill automatically nullifies all convictions for loitering with the intent of prostitution that were in effect on February 1, 2021, effectively treating these convictions as if they never occurred. The chief administrator of the courts is mandated to notify relevant law enforcement agencies about these vacated convictions and ensure that all associated records are marked as expunged. Individuals whose records are affected can request complete destruction of their records, and the records will not be accessible to anyone except the individual or their designated agent. The bill also requires the office of court administration to develop a public information campaign to widely communicate the details of these expungements, including how individuals can seek relief and the impact on their criminal history. Additionally, the legislation removes references to loitering for prostitution from other sections of criminal procedure law, further solidifying the legal change. By taking these steps, the bill aims to address past criminal justice practices that disproportionately impacted individuals, particularly those involved in sex work, by providing a clear path to clearing their criminal records.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S3040