Bill > S06656

This bill amends the New York criminal procedure law to allow electronic court appearances statewide, expanding an existing provision that previously limited electronic appearances to specific counties. Under the new law, courts will have the discretion to permit defendants to appear electronically in criminal actions, with three key conditions: first, the chief administrator of the courts must authorize the use of electronic appearances; second, the defendant must consult with their legal counsel; and third, the defendant must provide explicit consent on the record at the beginning of each electronic appearance. The bill notably removes the previous list of counties where electronic appearances were permitted, effectively making electronic court appearances a potential option for any court in New York state. This change could provide greater flexibility for defendants and courts, potentially reducing in-person court appearances while still maintaining judicial oversight and the defendant's right to counsel.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6656