Bill > A06224

This bill amends the New York State Penal Law to provide clearer guidelines and restrictions on the use of physical force by public servants. First, it introduces a new definition of "injurious physical force" as physical force that is readily capable of causing physical injury, including the use of hazardous substances or noxious materials. The bill modifies existing law to specify that public servants can only use injurious physical force under two specific circumstances: (1) to defend themselves or another person from what they reasonably believe is an imminent use of injurious physical force, or (2) to accomplish a reasonable exercise of their official duties. Additionally, the bill requires that any physical force used must be limited to what is reasonably necessary to accomplish the official task. The legislation also mandates that the Commissioner of Criminal Justice Services, in consultation with the Commissioner of Health, will develop regulations governing the use of physical force by public servants, including potential restrictions on devices or substances used in the exercise of physical force. These changes aim to provide more explicit standards and oversight for the use of force by public servants, potentially reducing the risk of excessive or unnecessary force. The bill will take effect 30 days after becoming law.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6224