Bill > S05816

This bill establishes the Homeless Protection Act, which expands hate crime protections to include offenses targeting individuals experiencing homelessness. Specifically, the bill amends the penal law to add "homelessness" as a protected characteristic when determining whether a crime is classified as a hate crime. The bill provides a comprehensive definition of homelessness that includes individuals lacking a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence, such as those living on streets, in cars, public spaces, shelters, transitional housing, or temporary accommodations paid for by government or charitable organizations. Additionally, the bill requires law enforcement and state agencies to collect and report statistical data on hate crimes, now including demographic information about the victims and perpetrators that specifically tracks incidents involving homeless individuals. By adding homelessness as a protected status, the bill aims to provide legal recognition and enhanced protection for one of society's most vulnerable populations, acknowledging that targeting someone because of their housing status can constitute a discriminatory hate crime. The changes will take effect immediately upon enactment.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5816