Removes the $250 economic harm requirement from the felony commercial bribery statutes; expands the crime of larceny to include theft of personal identifying information, computer data, computer programs, and services, to adapt to modern technological realities; provides state jurisdiction and county venue over cases involving larceny of personal identifying information, computer data, and computer programs, where the victim is located in the state or the county.
Summary
Bill S01693 amends the penal law regarding commercial bribery and larceny. It removes the requirement that economic harm must exceed $250 for a felony charge of commercial bribery, thus simplifying the prosecution of such cases. Additionally, the bill expands the definition of larceny to include the theft of personal identifying information, computer data, computer programs, and services, reflecting the need to adapt legal definitions to modern technological realities. Furthermore, it provides jurisdiction and venue provisions for prosecuting these crimes based on the location of the victim, enhancing the ability to address identity theft and related offenses effectively.
Impact
The bill significantly impacts state laws by broadening the scope of commercial bribery and larceny statutes. By eliminating the economic harm threshold for commercial bribery, it allows for more straightforward prosecution of such offenses. The inclusion of personal identifying information and digital assets in the larceny definition acknowledges the growing prevalence of cybercrime and identity theft, thereby strengthening legal protections for victims in New York State.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding Bill S01693 appears to be supportive, as it addresses contemporary issues related to technology and crime. There have been no recorded votes or significant opposition noted in the available committee discussions, suggesting a consensus on the necessity of updating the law to protect against modern forms of theft and bribery.
Contention
While there are no notable points of contention mentioned in the discussions or voting history, potential concerns could arise regarding the implications of broadening the definitions of commercial bribery and larceny. Stakeholders may debate the balance between protecting victims and ensuring that the legal framework does not inadvertently criminalize benign actions. However, no specific opposition has been documented at this time.
Same As
Removes the $250 economic harm requirement from the felony commercial bribery statutes; expands the crime of larceny to include theft of personal identifying information, computer data, computer programs, and services, to adapt to modern technological realities; provides state jurisdiction and county venue over cases involving larceny of personal identifying information, computer data, and computer programs, where the victim is located in the state or the county.
Removes the $250 economic harm requirement from the felony commercial bribery statutes; expands the crime of larceny to include theft of personal identifying information, computer data, computer programs, and services, to adapt to modern technological realities; provides state jurisdiction and county venue over cases involving larceny of personal identifying information, computer data, and computer programs, where the victim is located in the state or the county.