Bill > S03661

This bill amends the New York Civil Practice Law and Rules to significantly modify class action procedures. The legislation eliminates previous restrictions that prevented class actions involving penalties or minimum recoveries, and expressly permits class actions against governmental entities. The bill introduces more comprehensive guidelines for class action certification, including detailed criteria for appointing class counsel, with courts now required to consider factors such as counsel's experience, investigative work, knowledge of law, and commitment to representing the class. The bill also establishes more rigorous procedures for voluntary dismissals, compromises, and settlements of class actions, mandating court approval and requiring detailed notice to class members. Additionally, the legislation provides courts with greater discretion in awarding attorneys' fees, allowing them to compensate representatives and other parties who have benefited the class, while ensuring that such awards are reasonable and just. These changes aim to make class action lawsuits more accessible, transparent, and equitable, particularly by removing barriers to actions against government entities and creating more structured guidelines for legal proceedings.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S3661