Bill > A06159

This bill amends the New York Penal Law by increasing the severity of the penalty for rape in the first degree from a class B felony to a class A-II felony. The bill modifies the language describing the offender from "he or she" to "such person" and maintains the existing definitions of first-degree rape, which include sexual contact through forcible compulsion, with a person incapable of consent due to physical helplessness, with a person under eleven years old, or with a person under thirteen years old when the perpetrator is eighteen or older. These definitions cover vaginal, oral, and anal sexual contact. The change in felony classification suggests a recognition of the serious nature of the crime and potentially indicates an intent to impose more stringent sentencing. The amendment takes effect immediately upon enactment.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6159