Bill > A03783

This bill amends the New York Penal Law to include "making graffiti" (section 145.60) as a "specified offense" within the existing hate crimes statute. By adding this section to the list of specified offenses, the bill expands the potential for bias-related graffiti to be prosecuted as a hate crime. This means that if graffiti is created with an intent to intimidate or harass a person based on race, color, national origin, ancestry, gender, religion, religious practice, age, disability, or sexual orientation, it could be charged as a hate crime, which typically carries enhanced penalties. The modification is a targeted effort to provide legal tools to address bias-motivated vandalism, recognizing graffiti as a potential form of intimidation or expression of prejudice. The bill will take effect on the first of November following its passage into law, giving law enforcement and judicial systems time to prepare for the updated statute.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3783