Bill > A06556

This bill amends the civil practice law and rules to expand the factors a court can consider when determining whether to issue a temporary extreme risk protection order (ERPO). Specifically, the bill adds evidence of recent acts of aggravated cruelty to animals as a new factor for courts to evaluate. An extreme risk protection order is a legal mechanism designed to temporarily remove firearms from individuals who may pose a risk to themselves or others. The bill defines "recent" as within six months prior to filing the petition and references the definition of aggravated cruelty to animals found in the agriculture and markets law. By including animal cruelty as a consideration, the bill suggests that acts of violence toward animals can be an indicator of potential future violent behavior, and thus may be relevant when assessing whether an individual should be prohibited from possessing firearms. This change allows judges to have a more comprehensive view of an individual's potential risk when deciding whether to issue a temporary extreme risk protection order.

Housing and Urban Affairs, Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6556