Bill > S05573

This bill modifies New York state law to increase the severity of punishment for rape in the first degree by changing its classification from a class B felony to a class A-I felony and making it punishable by life imprisonment without parole. Specifically, the bill amends two sections of the penal law: first, it changes the felony classification of rape in the first degree, and second, it adds rape in the first degree to the list of crimes that can result in a life imprisonment without parole sentence. The key change means that individuals convicted of first-degree rape will now face the most serious felony classification and will not be eligible for parole or conditional release, similar to sentencing provisions for other serious crimes like murder. The bill is designed to impose more stringent penalties for this serious sexual crime, reflecting a legislative intent to treat rape in the first degree with extreme legal severity. The changes will take effect on the first of November following the bill's enactment into law.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5573