Bill > S09040

This bill amends the penal law, which is the body of laws concerning crimes and punishments, to expand the definition of "public servant." Previously, this term primarily referred to officers and employees of the state or its subdivisions. Now, the bill inserts language to explicitly include federal government officers and employees, as well as governmental instrumentalities of the United States that have jurisdiction within the state, within the definition of a public servant. This means that individuals holding public office or employed by the federal government will now be subject to the same legal standards and protections as state public servants under the penal law, regardless of whether they are currently exercising their official functions or have been elected or designated to become one.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S9040