Bill > S05963

This bill establishes the "Protection of Victims of Domestic Violence Act," which provides judges with enhanced tools to protect domestic violence victims during defendant release. The legislation allows judges to impose specific protective conditions on defendants, including mandating the use of global positioning system (GPS) monitoring. Under this bill, a judge can require a defendant to wear a GPS ankle bracelet and, with the victim's informed consent, provide the victim with an electronic device that alerts them if the defendant comes within a certain proximity. The bill carefully defines "domestic violence" and "informed consent," ensuring that victims are fully aware of their rights and the technology's limitations. The GPS monitoring aims to deter potential future violence by tracking the defendant's location and creating technological barriers to prevent contact with the victim. The defendant must either pay for the GPS device and monitoring or perform community service in lieu of payment. Additionally, the bill requires detailed documentation of the release conditions, including the defendant's identifying information and specific movement restrictions. The law also mandates that if a GPS monitoring order is issued, the defendant is automatically prohibited from purchasing or possessing firearms. The bill emphasizes victim safety and choice, allowing victims to request termination of monitoring and providing comprehensive information about support services and safety planning.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5963