New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A03419

Introduced
1/27/25  
Refer
1/27/25  

Caption

Allows victim impact statements in New York state be video recorded; requires that the members of the parole board and all presiding commissioners for such hearing review all relevant victim impact statements prior to the conduct of a parole hearing and to sign a written attestation confirming that they have done so.

Summary

Bill A03419 amends the criminal procedure law and executive law in New York to allow victim impact statements to be recorded on video. It mandates that these statements be reviewed by members of the parole board and presiding commissioners before any parole hearing. The bill aims to enhance the consideration of victims' perspectives in the criminal justice process, particularly during parole decisions, by ensuring that their voices are not only heard but also formally documented and reviewed.

Impact

The bill will modify existing procedures related to victim impact statements in New York's criminal justice system. It will require that all relevant victim statements be reviewed by parole board members prior to hearings, thereby potentially influencing parole decisions. This change may lead to a greater emphasis on the victims' experiences and needs in the parole process, aligning with broader efforts to improve victim rights and support within the state.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding Bill A03419 appears to be supportive, as it seeks to empower victims and ensure their voices are considered in parole hearings. However, there may be concerns regarding the implementation of video recording and the potential emotional impact on victims, which could lead to discussions about privacy and the appropriateness of such measures.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from differing opinions on the effectiveness and appropriateness of video recording victim impact statements. Some advocates may argue for the importance of this measure in giving victims a voice, while others may express concerns about the emotional toll it could take on victims or the potential for misuse of recorded statements. Additionally, there may be discussions regarding the logistical challenges of implementing this requirement within the existing parole process.

Companion Bills

NY S00024

Same As Allows victim impact statements in New York state be video recorded; requires that the members of the parole board and all presiding commissioners for such hearing review all relevant victim impact statements prior to the conduct of a parole hearing and to sign a written attestation confirming that they have done so.

NY S08354

Same As Allows victim impact statements in New York state be video recorded; requires that the members of the parole board and all presiding commissioners for such hearing review all relevant victim impact statements prior to the conduct of a parole hearing and to sign a written attestation confirming that they have done so.

Previously Filed As

NY S08354

Allows victim impact statements in New York state be video recorded; requires that the members of the parole board and all presiding commissioners for such hearing review all relevant victim impact statements prior to the conduct of a parole hearing and to sign a written attestation confirming that they have done so.

NY S02733

Allows victim impact statements in New York state be video recorded; requires that the members of the parole board and all presiding commissioners for such hearing review all relevant victim impact statements prior to the conduct of a parole hearing and to sign a written attestation confirming that they have done so.

NY S00024

Allows victim impact statements in New York state be video recorded; requires that the members of the parole board and all presiding commissioners for such hearing review all relevant victim impact statements prior to the conduct of a parole hearing and to sign a written attestation confirming that they have done so.

NY S07972

Allows victim impact statements to be submitted at parole revocation hearings.

NY HB3430

Relating to the notification of the parole hearing and the victim’s right to be heard allowing other notified persons listed on the parole hearing form to be allowed to submit not only written statements, but also speak at the parole board hearings

NY A3014

Allows victims and relatives to witness parole hearings.

NY SB0009

Victim impact statements.

NY HB203

Parole Board hearings; provide that required notification be sent via certified mail to crime victim and immediate family members of homicide victim.

NY SB1704

Relating to certain rights of crime victims and witnesses and associated persons and to victim impact statements.

NY S09530

Enacts the "crash victims bill of rights"; requires accident reports to be delivered to victims of accidents or their next of kin; requires victim impact statements to be delivered at traffic infraction hearings by injured parties or their next of kin; requires employers to grant leave of absence to employees delivering a victim impact statement at a traffic infraction hearing; directs the superintendent of financial services to conduct a study and complete a report on certain automobile crash information.

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