New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A06959

Introduced
3/18/25  
Refer
3/18/25  

Caption

Defines the terms "cell" and "out-of-cell" to clarify meaning of cell confinement and the amount or type of space deemed a cell or out-of-cell.

Summary

Bill A06959 seeks to amend the correction law in New York by providing clear definitions for the terms "cell" and "out-of-cell". The bill establishes that a 'cell' is any room or area intended for use by an incarcerated individual for sleeping or any space that does not allow for meaningful social interaction among multiple people. Conversely, 'out-of-cell' refers to spaces that facilitate group activities and social interaction, such as classrooms, recreation yards, and libraries, where individuals can engage with others without physical barriers.

Impact

The passage of this bill would impact the correctional system by clarifying the conditions under which incarcerated individuals are held. It aims to ensure that individuals have access to out-of-cell time in environments conducive to social interaction and programming, which may lead to improvements in rehabilitation efforts and overall inmate welfare. This could also necessitate changes in how correctional facilities allocate space and resources to comply with the new definitions.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A06959 appears to be neutral, as there have been no recorded votes or significant committee discussions available at this time. This may indicate that the bill has not yet garnered widespread attention or controversy among lawmakers or stakeholders in the correctional system.

Contention

As there is limited information on committee discussions or voting history, notable points of contention are not clearly defined. However, potential areas of debate could arise regarding the implementation of the definitions and the resources required to provide adequate out-of-cell opportunities for incarcerated individuals, which may be viewed differently by various stakeholders in the correctional system.

Companion Bills

NY S00431

Same As Defines the terms "cell" and "out-of-cell" to clarify meaning of cell confinement and the amount or type of space deemed a cell or out-of-cell.

Previously Filed As

NY S00431

Defines the terms "cell" and "out-of-cell" to clarify meaning of cell confinement and the amount or type of space deemed a cell or out-of-cell.

NY S07406

Enacts the "cellular mapping act"; requires the public service commission to review cellular services within the state; requires the expansion of cellular services.

NY A09695

Enacts the "cellular mapping act"; requires the public service commission to review cellular services within the state; requires the expansion of cellular services.

NY SB1214

stem cells; birth tissue; therapy

NY HB183

Provides relative to the use of cellular devices in courts and courthouses

NY H3974

Relative to cellular coverage

NY HB91

Minors; limiting room or cell confinement in a juvenile correctional facility, report.

NY SB1137

Cellphone Jamming Reform Act of 2025

NY HB2350

Cellphone Jamming Reform Act of 2025

NY A3563

Provides sales and use tax exemption for sales of fuel cell devices and systems and certain tangible personal property powered by fuel cells.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.