Bill > S05479

This bill amends the New York State Penal Law to explicitly define smart phones and mobile devices as computers for legal purposes, and provides a detailed definition of what constitutes a "smart phone or mobile device". Specifically, the bill expands the existing definition of "computer" to include smart phones and mobile devices, and adds a new subdivision that defines such devices as portable computing devices with four key characteristics: (1) small enough to be easily carried by an individual, (2) capable of operating without a physical connection, (3) possessing local data storage capabilities (either removable or non-removable), and (4) having a self-contained power source. This legislative change appears to be aimed at ensuring that legal protections and provisions related to computer usage and unauthorized access can be more explicitly applied to modern mobile computing devices, reflecting the technological advancements since the original law was drafted. By formally defining smart phones and mobile devices as computers, the bill likely seeks to provide clearer legal frameworks for addressing potential digital privacy, security, and unauthorized use scenarios involving these ubiquitous personal devices.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5479