Bill > A03516

This bill, known as the "Keep Police Radio Public Act," establishes regulations for law enforcement radio communications in New York State. It defines key terms such as emergency services organizations (non-profit and support groups providing emergency relief), radio communications (verbal broadcasts over radio frequencies), and sensitive information (details that could compromise investigations or trial fairness). The bill requires law enforcement agencies that choose to encrypt their radio communications to still provide real-time access to these communications for emergency services organizations and professional journalists, with only sensitive information being withheld. To facilitate this, the Department of State will create a credential verification process to grant access, which must be completed within five business days. The law specifically excludes private communications like cell phone calls or text messages from these requirements. The Department of State is also tasked with developing rules and standards to implement these provisions. The act will go into effect 90 days after becoming law, aiming to balance public transparency with the need to protect certain investigative and legal sensitivities.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3516