Establishes the crimes of deceptive wearing of a mask and aggravated deceptive wearing of a mask; makes such crimes a class B misdemeanor and a class A misdemeanor, respectively.
Summary
Bill S00723 aims to amend the penal law of New York by introducing two new offenses: deceptive wearing of a mask and aggravated deceptive wearing of a mask. The bill defines 'deceptive wearing of a mask' as loitering or congregating in public while masked or disguised, particularly during protests or public assemblies, with exceptions for religious observance or permitted entertainment. This offense is classified as a class B misdemeanor. The second offense, 'aggravated deceptive wearing of a mask,' applies when such actions result in injury, property damage, or theft, and is classified as a class A misdemeanor.
Impact
If enacted, this bill would create new legal standards regarding the wearing of masks in public spaces, particularly during protests and assemblies. It would establish penalties for individuals engaged in deceptive practices while masked, potentially affecting civil liberties and public assembly rights. The bill may also influence law enforcement practices regarding crowd control and public safety measures.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding Bill S00723 appears to be mixed, with some legislators supporting the need for public safety measures in light of recent events involving masked protests, while others express concerns about potential overreach and infringement on individual rights. The lack of voting history and committee discussions suggests that the bill is still in early stages of consideration.
Contention
Notable points of contention include concerns about the implications for free speech and assembly rights, as critics argue that the bill could disproportionately affect certain groups and stifle legitimate protests. Supporters contend that the bill is necessary to prevent violence and property damage associated with masked gatherings. The debate seems to center around balancing public safety with civil liberties.
Same As
Establishes the crimes of deceptive wearing of a mask and aggravated deceptive wearing of a mask; makes such crimes a class B misdemeanor and a class A misdemeanor, respectively.
Establishes the crimes of deceptive wearing of a mask and aggravated deceptive wearing of a mask; makes such crimes a class B misdemeanor and a class A misdemeanor, respectively.
Establishes the crimes of sexual conduct with an animal resulting in injury or death and sexual conduct with an animal; makes such crimes a class E felony and class A misdemeanor, respectively.
Establishes the crimes of sexual conduct with an animal resulting in injury or death and sexual conduct with an animal; makes such crimes a class E felony and class A misdemeanor, respectively.
Establishes the crime of package theft in the fourth, third, second and first degrees; designates such crimes as a class A misdemeanor, class E felony, class D felony, and class B felony, respectively; provides instances that are not a defense to such crimes; provides for certain defenses to such crimes.
Establishes crime of aggravated criminal conduct to provide more severe penalties for persons who have committed 3 or more qualifying misdemeanors or felonies within ten years of the present class A misdemeanor offense.