Bill > S06662

This bill amends the New York state penal law to expand protections for medical providers and hospital personnel by broadening the definition of assault when committed against healthcare workers. Specifically, the bill replaces limited references to "registered nurse" and "licensed practical nurse" with a much more comprehensive list of medical professionals, including physicians, physician assistants, health care providers, primary care practitioners, various types of nurses (registered nurses, nurse practitioners, certified nursing assistants), ambulance personnel, hospital directors, medical directors, hospital employees, attendants, agents, and volunteers. Under the revised law, intentionally causing physical injury to these medical personnel while preventing them from performing their lawful duties would be considered a more serious form of assault. The bill also updates language to use gender-neutral terminology (changing "he or she" to "they") and maintains the existing legal framework for prosecuting such assaults. This expansion of protections aims to recognize the diverse roles of medical professionals and provide stronger legal deterrents against violence targeting healthcare workers in various settings, including hospitals, emergency departments, and other medical environments.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6662