Bill > S05485

This bill amends the New York penal law to create two new criminal offenses related to stealing property from essential service providers. The bill defines "essential service providers" broadly to include utility companies, cable television companies, internet service providers, cellular telephone companies, and other communication service providers. Under the new law, stealing property from these providers would be considered grand larceny, with two distinct degrees of severity. Grand larceny of essential services in the second degree is a class C felony, which applies to any theft from an essential service provider. Grand larceny of essential services in the first degree is a more serious class B felony, which occurs when the theft causes a substantial interruption or impairment of services. The goal of the legislation is to provide stronger legal protections and more significant criminal penalties for theft that could disrupt critical infrastructure and communication services, thereby deterring potential offenders and protecting vital public services. The bill will take effect 90 days after it becomes law.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5485