Bill > A07425

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment that would allow courts to reduce the pension of a correction officer who is found liable for the death or hospitalization of an incarcerated individual. Specifically, the bill would permit a court to reduce a correction officer's pension to no less than $20,000 after holding a hearing, taking into account factors such as the severity of the officer's actions and potential hardship to dependents. A "correction officer" is defined as a state or local employee responsible for maintaining custody and supervision of individuals in correctional facilities. The reduction would only apply to legal actions filed on or after the date the constitutional amendment is approved by voters. The bill requires the legislature to enact further legislation to implement this amendment, and mandates that any pension reduction be determined through a careful judicial process that considers the proportionality of the penalty and potential impacts on the officer's family. The proposed amendment aims to provide a mechanism for financial accountability for correction officers found responsible for serious harm to incarcerated individuals while ensuring some baseline financial protection.

Justice, Labor and Employment

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A7425