Bill > A04497

This bill relates to enhancing penalties and protecting victims of domestic violence by making several significant changes to New York state law. The bill modifies multiple sections of the penal and criminal procedure codes to increase penalties for repeat offenders in domestic violence-related crimes. Key provisions include creating a new first-degree aggravated harassment offense for individuals who commit harassment against a family or household member and have a previous conviction, expanding the definition of strangulation in the second degree to include repeat offenders within the same household, and increasing the severity of criminal contempt and menacing charges from class E to class D felonies when committed against a family or household member. The bill also adds a new mandatory $250 domestic violence victim assistance fee for offenses involving family or household members, with the funds designated for training law enforcement in domestic violence issues. Additionally, the bill requires courts to consider factors like prior violence, existing protection orders, and firearm possession when determining bail or recognizance for individuals charged with crimes against family or household members. These changes aim to provide stronger legal protections and more serious consequences for domestic violence perpetrators.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4497