New York Assembly Bill A01129

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/25
• Refer: 1/9/25
• Refer: 1/7/26

Caption

Relates to establishing an electronic monitoring program for certain children and adults; establishes a program where local law enforcement agencies shall provide electronic monitoring devices to parents or guardians to be worn by children or adults with autism spectrum disorder, developmental disability, Alzheimer's disease or other dementia, or any other cognitive disorder; provides such devices shall be used by law enforcement agencies to locate missing children or adults.

Summary

Bill A01129 seeks to establish an electronic monitoring program for certain children and adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, developmental disabilities, Alzheimer's disease, or other cognitive disorders. The program will allow eligible parents or guardians to apply for electronic monitoring devices that can be worn by their children or adults to facilitate their location in case they go missing. The program is designed to enhance the safety and recovery efforts for these vulnerable populations by enabling local law enforcement agencies to track their whereabouts using GPS or similar technology.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will amend the executive law to include provisions for an electronic monitoring program specifically targeting individuals with cognitive disorders. This will create a new framework for local law enforcement agencies to operate within, requiring them to be trained on the use of these devices and to maintain confidentiality regarding the personal information of participants. The bill aims to enhance public safety and provide peace of mind to families of affected individuals.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding Bill A01129 appears to be supportive, as it addresses a critical need for the safety of vulnerable populations. However, there may be concerns regarding privacy and the implications of electronic monitoring, which could lead to discussions about the balance between safety and individual rights.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the voluntary nature of the program and the potential for misuse of the monitoring data. Some advocates for privacy rights may express concerns about the implications of tracking individuals, even with consent, while supporters may argue that the benefits of safety and recovery outweigh these concerns. The perspectives of parents and guardians of affected individuals will likely play a significant role in the debate.