A 3049 New York Assembly · 2025 Regular Session

Establishes the crime of endangering the welfare of a child in the first degree

This bill creates a new criminal offense called "endangering the welfare of a child in the first degree" for individuals who knowingly or recklessly create a serious risk of physical injury or long-term harm to a child under 17. It specifically applies when someone causes physical injury to a child under 7, or has prior convictions for certain crimes involving children under 17. The offense is classified as a class E felony, carrying more severe penalties than the existing "second degree" offense (a class A misdemeanor). The law directly affects caregivers, parents, or others responsible for children's safety who fail to prevent serious harm.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 23, 2025 Last action Jan 7, 2026