Bill > S05084

This bill establishes a new process for reviewing disciplinary decisions made by the New York City Police Commissioner that differ from recommendations made by the Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB). Under the new law, when the Police Commissioner intends to impose a discipline level lower than what the CCRB or internal deputy commissioner recommended, the matter will be immediately referred to a neutral arbitrator. These arbitrators will be selected from a panel of five appointees by the Public Advocate. The arbitrator's decision will be final, but they are limited to determining the officer's guilt or innocence and the appropriateness of proposed penalties, and cannot recommend a penalty more severe than the one originally proposed by the CCRB. The Police Commissioner must provide a detailed written explanation for deviating from the original disciplinary recommendation, including each factor considered in the decision. This bill aims to add an additional layer of accountability and transparency to police disciplinary proceedings by introducing an independent review process. The law will take effect 120 days after it is enacted.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5084