New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S01990

Introduced
1/14/25  
Refer
1/14/25  

Caption

Establishes the "Malcom X unsolved civil rights crime act"; requires the assistant attorney of the civil rights bureau to investigate violations of criminal civil rights statutes that occurred not later than December thirty-first, nineteen seventy-nine, and resulted in a death.

Summary

The "Malcolm X Unsolved Civil Rights Crime Act of 2025" aims to address historical injustices by mandating the investigation of unsolved civil rights murders that occurred before December 31, 1979, which resulted in death. The bill establishes the responsibility of the assistant attorney general of the civil rights bureau to oversee these investigations and coordinate with state and local law enforcement. Additionally, it requires annual reporting on the status of these investigations and appropriates funds to support the investigative efforts.

Impact

This bill will amend the executive law by adding a new section dedicated to civil rights investigations, thereby enhancing the state's commitment to addressing historical civil rights violations. It will provide a structured approach for investigating past crimes, potentially leading to prosecutions that were previously unaddressed. The appropriation of $2 million annually will also impact state budgets and resource allocation for law enforcement agencies involved in these investigations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the bill appears to be largely supportive, particularly among those advocating for civil rights and justice for historical injustices. However, there may be some contention regarding the allocation of state funds and the prioritization of these investigations over other pressing law enforcement needs.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from differing opinions on the allocation of funds and resources for these investigations. Some lawmakers may argue that focusing on historical cases detracts from addressing current crime rates and public safety concerns. Others may feel that the bill does not go far enough in ensuring justice for victims of civil rights violations, particularly in terms of the resources allocated for investigations.

Companion Bills

NY A08108

Same As Establishes the "Malcom X unsolved civil rights crime act"; requires the assistant attorney of the civil rights bureau to investigate violations of criminal civil rights statutes that occurred not later than December thirty-first, nineteen seventy-nine, and resulted in a death.

Previously Filed As

NY A08108

Establishes the "Malcom X unsolved civil rights crime act"; requires the assistant attorney of the civil rights bureau to investigate violations of criminal civil rights statutes that occurred not later than December thirty-first, nineteen seventy-nine, and resulted in a death.

NY A02665

Establishes the "Malcom X unsolved civil rights crime act"; requires the assistant attorney of the civil rights bureau to investigate violations of criminal civil rights statutes that occurred not later than December thirty-first, nineteen seventy-nine, and resulted in a death.

NY SB355

Establishing a civil cause of action for civil rights violations.

NY AB331

Establishing a civil cause of action for civil rights violations.

NY HB641

Establishing a private right of action for civil rights violations.

NY HB284

Establish an interim committee to investigate civil rights violations and censorship within the MUS

NY SB1160

Attorney general enforcement authority for civil rights violations and providing a penalty. (FE)

NY AB1208

Attorney general enforcement authority for civil rights violations and providing a penalty. (FE)

NY SB1078

An act to add and repeal Chapter 3.85 (commencing with Section 7294.7) of Part 1.7 of Division 2 of the Revenue and Taxation Code, relating to taxation, and declaring the urgency thereof, to take effect immediately. An act to amend Section 51.1 of the Civil Code, relating to civil rights.

NY A10434

Establishes the "public civil rights accountability act" in relation to requiring civil rights compliance certification and training for public employees.

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