Bill > A06725

This bill increases legal protections for senior citizens by modifying existing New York state penal law in two key ways. First, it creates a more serious criminal classification for larceny (theft) when the stolen property is valued over $250 and taken from a person who is 65 years of age or older, effectively increasing the potential penalties for such crimes. Second, the bill establishes a new criminal offense called "fraudulent accosting in the first degree," which specifically targets scams and confidence schemes targeting seniors. Under this new provision, if someone accosts a person 65 or older in a public place with the intent to defraud them through tricks or swindles, they can be charged with a class E felony, which is more severe than the existing class A misdemeanor for fraudulent accosting. The bill aims to provide additional legal deterrence and protection for elderly individuals who may be more vulnerable to financial fraud and theft. The new provisions will take effect on the first of November following the bill's enactment into law.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6725