Bill > A05206

This bill requires enhanced training for police officers and child protective services workers regarding sexual assault and child abuse investigations. For police officers, the bill mandates that the state council develop comprehensive training programs in consultation with rape crisis centers, covering topics such as understanding sexual assault trauma, offender characteristics, victim treatment standards, evidence gathering, interview techniques, and local victim services. All new police officers must receive this training as part of their basic academy curriculum, with provisions for periodic retraining. For child protective services workers, the bill requires the Office of Children and Family Services to establish training standards and curriculum focusing on appropriate investigatory techniques for sexual abuse cases, with mandatory ongoing training. The training for child protective services workers must be completed within the first three months of employment, with the option of using distance learning methods starting April 2025. The bill aims to improve the professional response to sexual assault and child abuse by ensuring that law enforcement and social services personnel are well-educated and equipped to handle these sensitive cases effectively. The new training requirements will take effect 90 days after the bill becomes law.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5206