Criminal Justice

signed · New York · Assembly Oct 16, 2025

A 934: Relates to peremptory challenges where there are two or more defendants

This bill changes rules for peremptory challenges (challenges to exclude jurors without reason) in criminal trials with two or more defendants. It specifies that when defendants are tried jointly, they are treated as a single party for challenge purposes. The key provision requires that a peremptory challenge must be allowed if a majority of defendants agree or if there is a tie with an even number of defendants. This directly affects defendants in multi-defendant criminal cases by clarifying when joint challenges can be exercised.

Topics ✓ Criminal JusticeSupports Criminal JusticeClarifies peremptory challenges in joint trials, requiring majority consent to exclude jurors, protecting defendants' rights in multi-defendant cases.85% confidence | Rep's Stance ✓ Voted Yes ✓ Supports Criminal Justice

signed · New York · Assembly Oct 16, 2025

A 4159: Prohibits correctional facilities from denying entry to certain peer support advocates based on such advocates' prior history of incarceration

Prohibits correctional facilities from denying entry to peer support advocates who are certified or licensed and are participating in the provision of corrections-based substance use disorder treatment and transition services based on such advocates' prior history of incarceration.

Topics ✓ Criminal JusticeSupports Criminal JusticeRemoves barriers for formerly incarcerated peer advocates in correctional treatment programs, advancing rehabilitation and reducing recidivism through direct service access.95% confidence ✓ HealthcareSupports HealthcareRemoves barriers for certified peer advocates in correctional substance use disorder treatment, improving access to mental health services within healthcare context.85% confidence | Rep's Stance ✓ Voted Yes ✓ Supports Criminal Justice

signed · New York · Senate Sep 26, 2025

S 4767: Relates to training police officers on how to respond to situations involving individuals with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities

Relates to training police officers on how to respond to situations involving individuals with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities.

Topics ✓ Criminal JusticeSupports Criminal JusticeMandates police training for autism/developmental disability interactions, reducing potential harm and aligning with criminal justice reform goals of improved officer conduct and civil rights protection.95% confidence | Rep's Stance ✓ Voted Yes ✓ Supports Criminal Justice

signed · New York · Assembly Feb 14, 2025

A 921: Relates to protective orders for juries

This bill clarifies when courts can issue protective orders to shield jurors' personal information in criminal cases. It allows courts to restrict disclosure of juror names and addresses to anyone except attorneys, if they find good cause to believe a safety threat exists. Courts must consider specific factors like whether the defendant previously harassed jurors, the severity of charges (e.g., large criminal enterprises), or extensive pretrial media coverage. The law directly affects jurors in high-risk criminal trials by prioritizing their safety through concrete, limited disclosure restrictions.

Topics ✓ Criminal JusticeSupports Criminal JusticeProtects juror safety in criminal trials by restricting personal information disclosure, supporting court integrity and fair proceedings per bill's safety factors.85% confidence | Rep's Stance ✓ Voted Yes ✓ Supports Criminal Justice

signed · New York · Assembly Feb 14, 2025

A 434: Relates to amending provisions requiring the termination of connected vehicle services upon the request of a domestic violence victim

Amends certain provisions requiring the termination of connected vehicle services upon the request of a domestic violence victim; requires the provider of the connected vehicle services to terminate such services within two days of receiving a request; directs the office for the prevention of domestic violence to make information available on their website; defines terms.

Topics ✓ Criminal JusticeSupports Criminal JusticeBill mandates rapid termination of vehicle services for domestic violence victims, enhancing victim protection within criminal justice framework.95% confidence | Rep's Stance ✓ Voted Yes ✓ Supports Criminal Justice