New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A00588

Introduced
1/8/25  
Refer
1/8/25  

Caption

Relates to the former crime of loitering for the purpose of engaging in a prostitution offense; expunges criminal records for persons previously convicted of such crime; directs the chief administrator of the courts to provide information regarding such expungement; adds language to identify that the crime of loitering for the purpose of engaging in a prostitution offense is no longer in law.

Summary

Bill A00588 amends the criminal procedure law to vacate and expunge convictions for the former crime of loitering for the purpose of engaging in prostitution, as defined under former section 240.37 of the penal law. The bill mandates that all records related to such convictions be marked as expunged and destroyed upon request, effectively rendering these convictions legally invalid. Additionally, the bill requires the chief administrator of the courts to notify relevant law enforcement agencies of these changes and to implement an information campaign to inform the public about the expungement process.

Impact

The passage of Bill A00588 will significantly alter the legal landscape regarding past convictions for loitering related to prostitution in New York. It will remove the legal ramifications of such convictions, allowing individuals previously affected to have their records cleared. This change aims to reduce the stigma associated with these convictions and provide a pathway for affected individuals to reintegrate into society without the burden of a criminal record. The bill also aligns with broader criminal justice reform efforts aimed at addressing issues of equity and justice.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A00588 appears to be generally supportive, particularly among advocates for criminal justice reform and those focused on the rights of individuals with criminal records. Discussions have highlighted the importance of expungement in promoting social reintegration and reducing recidivism. However, there may be some opposition from groups concerned about the implications of decriminalizing loitering related to prostitution and its potential impact on public safety.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from differing views on the implications of expunging loitering convictions. Advocates argue that this is a necessary step toward justice and rehabilitation, while opponents may raise concerns about the potential for increased prostitution-related activities and its effects on community safety. The debate may also touch on the broader societal attitudes toward sex work and the criminalization of related offenses.

Companion Bills

NY S03040

Same As Relates to the former crime of loitering for the purpose of engaging in a prostitution offense; expunges criminal records for persons previously convicted of such crime; directs the chief administrator of the courts to provide information regarding such expungement; adds language to identify that the crime of loitering for the purpose of engaging in a prostitution offense is no longer in law.

NY S09828

Same As Relates to the former crime of loitering for the purpose of engaging in a prostitution offense; expunges criminal records for persons previously convicted of such crime; directs the chief administrator of the courts to provide information regarding such expungement; adds language to identify that the crime of loitering for the purpose of engaging in a prostitution offense is no longer in law.

Previously Filed As

NY S09828

Relates to the former crime of loitering for the purpose of engaging in a prostitution offense; expunges criminal records for persons previously convicted of such crime; directs the chief administrator of the courts to provide information regarding such expungement; adds language to identify that the crime of loitering for the purpose of engaging in a prostitution offense is no longer in law.

NY S01784

Relates to the former crime of loitering for the purpose of engaging in a prostitution offense; expunges criminal records for persons previously convicted of such crime; directs the chief administrator of the courts to provide information regarding such expungement; adds language to identify that the crime of loitering for the purpose of engaging in a prostitution offense is no longer in law.

NY A02500

Relates to the former crime of loitering for the purpose of engaging in a prostitution offense; expunges criminal records for persons previously convicted of such crime; directs the chief administrator of the courts to provide information regarding such expungement; adds language to identify that the crime of loitering for the purpose of engaging in a prostitution offense is no longer in law.

NY S03040

Relates to the former crime of loitering for the purpose of engaging in a prostitution offense; expunges criminal records for persons previously convicted of such crime; directs the chief administrator of the courts to provide information regarding such expungement; adds language to identify that the crime of loitering for the purpose of engaging in a prostitution offense is no longer in law.

NY HB4104

Crimes and punishment; Class B5 offenses; adding offenses; loitering; felony offenses; Sex Offenders Registration Act; adding offenses for registration; effective date.

NY AB209

Provides immunity from criminal liability for engaging in prostitution or solicitation for prostitution. (BDR 15-781)

NY SB1494

Establishes procedures for the automatic expungement of certain criminal offenses

NY AB63

Loitering with intent to commit prostitution.

NY HB559

Crimes and offenses; crime of loitering, exceptions further provided; mask usage policies on school campuses, authorized

NY HB168

Crimes and offenses; crime of loitering, exceptions further provided; mask usage policies on school campuses, authorized

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