New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S01314

Introduced
1/9/25  
Refer
1/9/25  
Engrossed
5/14/25  
Refer
5/14/25  
Engrossed
6/13/25  
Enrolled
11/17/25  
Chaptered
11/21/25  

Caption

Provides that a false representation of affiliation or approval, or false implication of such affiliation or approval, of any official, state or local agencies or other official source, shall be false advertising.

Summary

Bill S01314 amends the general business law in New York to clarify and expand the definition of false advertising, particularly concerning the false representation of affiliation or approval by state or local agencies. It establishes that any misleading communication that simulates official documents or creates a false impression of endorsement by governmental entities constitutes false advertising. The bill also specifies that employers are not liable for misleading advertising if the aggrieved party has not suffered actual pecuniary damage and if the employer has provided a full and accurate description of the employment opportunity before any damage occurs.

Impact

The bill aims to strengthen consumer protection by preventing deceptive advertising practices that could mislead consumers regarding the legitimacy of products or services associated with state or local agencies. It modifies existing laws to ensure that any claims of affiliation with governmental entities are substantiated by express permission, thereby enhancing accountability among advertisers. This change could lead to increased scrutiny of advertising practices and potentially reduce instances of consumer fraud.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S01314 appears to be overwhelmingly positive, as evidenced by the unanimous votes in both the Senate and Assembly. The Senate Consumer Protection Committee voted 7-0 in favor of the bill, and it passed the Senate floor with a vote of 57-0, followed by a 137-0 vote in the Assembly. This strong support indicates a consensus on the importance of protecting consumers from misleading advertising.

Contention

There are no notable points of contention regarding Bill S01314, as it has received unanimous support in committee and floor votes. The lack of opposition suggests that stakeholders generally agree on the necessity of the bill and its provisions to combat false advertising practices.

Companion Bills

NY A04575

Same As Provides that a false representation of affiliation or approval, or false implication of such affiliation or approval, of any official, state or local agencies or other official source, shall be false advertising.

Previously Filed As

NY S00276

Provides that a false representation of affiliation or approval, or false implication of such affiliation or approval, of any official, state or local agencies or other official source, shall be false advertising.

NY A04575

Provides that a false representation of affiliation or approval, or false implication of such affiliation or approval, of any official, state or local agencies or other official source, shall be false advertising.

NY S09584

Designates materially misleading digital representations in real estate listings as an unfair, deceptive or abusive act or false advertising; provides that a licensed real estate broker or salesperson shall be subject to suspension or revocation of their license for a violation of such provisions.

NJ S2348

Codifies United States Supreme Court ruling that in defamation suit, public official must prove defendant had actual malice: knowledge that defendant's statement was false or reckless disregard of whether it was false.

NJ A1405

Codifies United States Supreme Court ruling that in defamation suit, public official must prove defendant had actual malice: knowledge that defendant's statement was false or reckless disregard of whether it was false.

CA SB1050

An act to add Article 10 (commencing with Section 17610) to Chapter 1 of Part 3 of Division 7 of the Business and Professions Code, relating to consumer protection.

KS SB258

Requiring specific intent as an element of the crime of false representation of an election official.

RI S0814

Makes it a misdemeanor to knowingly file a false report of misconduct of any law enforcement official, public safety official, or hospital staff.

RI S2302

Makes it a misdemeanor to knowingly file a false report of misconduct of any law enforcement official, public safety official, or hospital staff.

NY A09586

Adds falsely reporting the use of a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument as part of the crimes of falsely reporting an incident in the first and second degrees.

Similar Bills

CA SB1050

False advertising: synthetic performers.

CA AB2717

Outdoor advertising displays: arenas: exemptions.

CA SB783

Outdoor advertising displays: redevelopment agency project areas.

CA AB840

Outdoor advertising displays: redevelopment agency project areas.

HI SB2733

Relating To Liquor.

CA AB770

Advertising displays: City of Los Angeles: exemption: ordinance.

CA SB1228

Advertising displays: exemptions: redevelopment agency projects.

AZ HB2179

Marijuana; advertising; restrictions