Bill > A06728

This bill provides comprehensive legal protections for the personnel records of police officers, firefighters, correction officers, and probation officers by establishing strict confidentiality guidelines. The legislation mandates that all personnel records used to evaluate performance, promotion, or continued employment for these public safety professionals shall be considered confidential and cannot be inspected or reviewed without the explicit written consent of the individual officer. If records are sought through a court order, the judge must first conduct a thorough review, provide an opportunity for interested parties to be heard, and demonstrate a clear and sufficient factual basis for requesting the records. When a court order is issued, the personnel records must be sealed and sent directly to the judge, who will then determine which parts of the record are relevant and material to the case. The bill includes an important exemption for various government legal representatives and agencies who may require these records for official functions. By creating this heightened protection, the bill aims to safeguard the privacy and professional integrity of public safety personnel while still maintaining a mechanism for legitimate legal review when absolutely necessary.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6728