Bill > A03182

This bill introduces new provisions to the New York Penal Law regarding the justification for use of force by peace officers and police officers, establishing clear guidelines and limitations for when deadly force can be used. The legislation emphasizes that officers have a serious responsibility to use force judiciously, respecting human rights and life, and can only use deadly force when absolutely necessary to defend against an imminent threat of death or serious bodily injury to themselves or another person. The bill defines key terms like "deadly force" and "imminent threat," clarifying that an imminent threat requires a present ability and intent to cause immediate harm, not just a future possibility. It also acknowledges that individuals with physical, mental health, developmental, or intellectual disabilities are more likely to experience higher levels of physical force during police interactions. The law requires officers to use objectively reasonable force, make reasonable efforts to identify themselves before using deadly force when feasible, and evaluate each situation based on the specific circumstances known to them at the time, without the benefit of hindsight. Importantly, the bill prohibits using deadly force against a person solely based on the danger they pose to themselves and allows officers to use reasonable force during arrests without being considered aggressors.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3182