Bill > S08511

This bill amends the New York criminal procedure law to allow prospective employers of volunteer and paid firefighters to conduct background checks on job applicants. Specifically, the bill adds a new provision to existing law that permits employers to access sealed criminal records when considering an individual for a firefighting position. The bill ensures that applicants will be provided with a copy of their records and given an opportunity to explain any information found during the background check. This change is part of a broader set of amendments to section 160.57 of the criminal procedure law, which governs access to sealed criminal records. The bill aims to help firefighting employers make more informed hiring decisions by allowing them to review an applicant's complete criminal history, while also providing transparency to the applicant by requiring they be given the opportunity to review and explain their records. The amendment takes effect immediately upon passage.

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S8511