Bill > A05369

This bill creates a new criminal offense called "harassment of a first responder" as a class A misdemeanor. The bill specifically defines first responders as law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical services personnel, providing detailed definitions for each category. Under the new law, a person can be charged with this offense if they knowingly and willfully approach or remain within 25 feet of a first responder after receiving a verbal warning, while the first responder is performing a legal duty, with the intent to: impede or interfere with the first responder's ability to perform their duty, threaten the first responder with physical harm, or 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 by creating legal consequences for individuals who intentionally obstruct or harass them while they are carrying out their professional responsibilities. The law will take effect on the first of November following its enactment.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5369