Bill > S04258

This bill creates a new criminal offense called "harassment of a first responder" as a class A misdemeanor. The law defines first responders broadly to include law enforcement officers (such as police, sheriffs, corrections officers, and federal law enforcement), firefighters (both professional and volunteer), and emergency medical services personnel. A person commits this crime if, after receiving a verbal warning, they knowingly and willfully approach or remain within 25 feet of a first responder who is performing a legal duty, with the intent to: (1) impede or interfere with the first responder's ability to perform their duty, (2) threaten the first responder with physical harm, or (3) engage in a course of conduct that causes substantial emotional distress to the first responder without a legitimate purpose. The bill aims to protect first responders from harassment while they are carrying out their professional responsibilities by establishing clear legal boundaries and potential criminal penalties for those who intentionally disrupt or threaten their work.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4258