Bill > A07725

This bill amends the criminal procedure law to enhance jury instructions by requiring judges to explicitly tell jurors not to let bias, sympathy, prejudice, or public opinion influence their decision-making. Specifically, the bill provides a mandatory instruction defining "bias" broadly to include prejudice based on characteristics such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, gender, religion, religious practice, age, disability, gender identity, or sexual orientation. The legislation stems from legislative findings that highlight concerns about societal bias in criminal proceedings, particularly the potential for "panic strategies" that might exploit jury prejudices. The bill aims to prevent defendants from being acquitted or receiving lesser charges due to juror bias against victims or witnesses. The new jury instruction is designed to directly address and mitigate potential discriminatory thinking during trial deliberations, emphasizing the importance of impartiality and fair judgment based solely on the facts of the case. The law will take effect 60 days after its passage, and it represents an effort to promote more equitable and unbiased judicial proceedings.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A7725