Bill > S08873

This bill, known as the "first responders assault prevention act," proposes to reclassify the crime of assaulting a peace officer, police officer, firefighter, or emergency medical services professional from a Class C felony to a Class B felony, thereby increasing the severity of the offense and its potential penalties. This change is intended to provide greater protection to these individuals who are often on the front lines of public safety and emergency response. The bill specifically amends Section 120.08 of the penal law to reflect this reclassification and also updates Section 70.02 of the penal law to list this offense as a Class B violent felony offense, which has implications for sentencing guidelines. The act is set to take effect on the first of November following its enactment into law.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S8873