Bill > S05811

This bill establishes a "certificate of restoration" to replace the existing "certificate of good conduct" and "certificate of relief from disabilities" across multiple areas of New York state law. The bill comprehensively updates various legal statutes to substitute the term "certificate of restoration" and modifies the process for how and when such certificates can be issued. Key provisions include making the certificate issuance more standardized and potentially more accessible, with courts and the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision having the authority to grant certificates. The bill aims to help individuals with prior criminal convictions restore their civil rights and improve their opportunities for employment, licensing, and civic participation. Notably, the legislation ensures that existing certificates of good conduct or relief from disabilities will remain valid and be considered equivalent to the new certificate of restoration. The bill affects numerous areas of law, including vehicle and traffic regulations, public health licensing, and employment rights, with the goal of providing a more consistent and rehabilitative approach to addressing the legal consequences of criminal convictions.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5811