New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S01079

Introduced
1/8/25  
Refer
1/8/25  

Caption

Requires every police officer, peace officer and employee of a correctional facility to intervene in incidents of violence involving incarcerated individuals.

Summary

Bill S01079 introduces a new section to the executive law that mandates police officers, peace officers, and employees of correctional facilities to intervene in incidents of violence involving incarcerated individuals. The bill defines the roles of police and peace officers and specifies that they must take action to prevent violence, injuries, or death during such incidents. Failure to comply with this requirement is classified as a class E felony, establishing a legal obligation for intervention in these situations. The bill aims to enhance the safety and welfare of incarcerated individuals by ensuring that law enforcement and correctional staff actively prevent violence. By imposing a legal duty to intervene, the bill seeks to create a culture of accountability among officers and employees in correctional settings, potentially reducing the incidence of violence within these facilities. If enacted, this legislation would amend existing laws related to the responsibilities of law enforcement and correctional facility employees, introducing significant changes to how incidents of violence are managed. It could lead to increased training and awareness programs regarding intervention protocols and the legal implications of failing to act during violent incidents. The sentiment surrounding the bill appears to be focused on the need for reform in the treatment of incarcerated individuals and the responsibilities of those who oversee them. Supporters argue that it is a necessary step toward protecting vulnerable populations, while opponents may express concerns about the implications for law enforcement discretion and the potential for unintended consequences in high-stress situations.

Impact

The bill will create a legal obligation for police officers, peace officers, and correctional facility employees to intervene in violent incidents, which could lead to changes in training and operational protocols within these institutions. It establishes a framework for accountability, as failure to intervene will result in criminal charges. This could also influence the broader conversation about the treatment of incarcerated individuals and the responsibilities of law enforcement in correctional settings.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around Bill S01079 is one of support for the protection of incarcerated individuals, with advocates emphasizing the need for accountability among law enforcement and correctional staff. However, there are also concerns regarding the feasibility of enforcing such a mandate and the potential impact on officer safety and decision-making in volatile situations.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between enforcing intervention and the potential risks to officers in high-pressure situations. Some lawmakers and stakeholders may argue that mandating intervention could lead to dangerous outcomes for officers and exacerbate tensions in correctional facilities. Others may question the effectiveness of the bill in truly preventing violence, suggesting that systemic issues need to be addressed alongside this legal requirement.

Companion Bills

NY A06090

Same As Requires every police officer, peace officer and employee of a correctional facility to intervene in incidents of violence involving incarcerated individuals.

Previously Filed As

NY A06090

Requires every police officer, peace officer and employee of a correctional facility to intervene in incidents of violence involving incarcerated individuals.

NY S02280

Requires law enforcement officers to conduct a lethality assessment as part of the standardized domestic incident report form when responding to incidents of domestic violence.

MO HB2913

Establishes provisions providing teachers with immunity if the teacher intervenes in incidents involving violence

MO HB3228

Establishes provisions providing teachers with immunity if the teacher intervenes in incidents involving violence

NJ A3444

Requires correctional police officers to wear body worn cameras and security camera systems to be installed in State correctional facilities.

NJ S2888

Requires award of Edna Mahan trauma credits to inmates incarcerated during period of investigation into allegations of sexual abuse by correctional police officers and staff.

WA HB2333

Protecting elected officials and candidates, executive state officers, election officials, and criminal justice participants against threats and incidents of political violence.

NY S01403

Enacts "Cariol's Law"; provides for a duty to intervene when a police officer or peace officer observes another police officer or peace officer using physical force that such officer reasonably believes to be clearly excessive or beyond that which is objectively reasonable under the circumstances.

NJ A3712

Requires Attorney General to establish model duty-to-intervene policy for law enforcement officers; requires entities that employ law enforcement officers to adopt duty-to-intervene policy.

NY S01138

Prohibits any police officer, peace officer or employee of a correctional facility from interfering with the provision of medical assistance to an incarcerated individual.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.