New York Senate Bill S00937

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/8/25
• Refer: 1/8/25
• Refer: 1/7/26

Caption

Prohibits the use of aversive conditioning which includes any procedure which causes obvious signs of physical pain, including but not limited to hitting, pinching and electric shock; prohibits the use of any procedure or punishment which denies a vulnerable person reasonable sleep, shelter, bedding, bathroom facilities and any other aspect expected of a humane existence; defines terms.

Summary

Bill S00937 aims to amend the social services law in New York to prohibit the use of aversive conditioning and other forms of punishment on vulnerable individuals. It defines aversive conditioning as any procedure that inflicts pain or discomfort to modify behavior, including physical stimuli like hitting, pinching, or electric shock. The bill also prohibits any punishment that denies vulnerable persons basic humane needs such as sleep, shelter, and bathroom facilities. Furthermore, it stipulates that no state-funded programs can engage in such practices, ensuring that any individualized education programs are not associated with facilities that violate these provisions.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will significantly alter the practices of state-funded programs and facilities that work with vulnerable populations, including individuals with disabilities. It will create a legal framework that strictly prohibits harmful behavioral modification techniques and ensures humane treatment standards are upheld. This could lead to a reevaluation of current practices in various care settings and may require training and adjustments to comply with the new regulations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S00937 appears to be largely supportive among advocates for vulnerable populations, particularly those concerned with the treatment of individuals with disabilities. However, there may be some contention from facilities that currently utilize aversive conditioning methods, as they may view the bill as an infringement on their operational practices.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from care facilities that argue the necessity of certain behavioral interventions for specific populations. Some stakeholders may express concerns about the potential challenges in implementing alternative methods of behavior management without the use of aversive techniques. Advocates for vulnerable individuals, on the other hand, strongly support the bill, emphasizing the need for humane treatment and the protection of rights.