Bill > A08492

This bill requires the commissioners and superintendents of various state law enforcement agencies to develop and implement a comprehensive tattoo policy for police officers, peace officers, and employment applicants. The bill defines a tattoo broadly as a permanent mark made by indelible ink, branding, or scarring that is difficult to remove. The policy guidelines must allow tattoos on arms, legs, back, or torso (including sleeve tattoos), with the potential requirement to cover them during work, while strictly prohibiting tattoos on hands (except for one ring tattoo per hand), face, and neck. Each state law enforcement agency retains the authority to establish additional tattoo restrictions beyond these baseline guidelines. The policy aims to provide clear, uniform standards for tattoos among state law enforcement personnel while maintaining some flexibility for individual agencies. The bill will take effect 60 days after becoming law, and agencies are authorized to prepare implementing regulations in advance of the effective date.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8492