Establishes the offense of obstructing a police officer.
Summary
This bill would add a new section to the New York Penal Law creating the crime of "obstructing a police officer." A person would commit the offense if they intentionally interfere with, inhibit, or attempt to interfere with or inhibit a police officer or peace officer while the officer is performing official duties. The bill specifically identifies conduct such as spitting, throwing or spilling items or liquids on an officer, and pushing, shoving, kicking, physically impeding, or otherwise making physical contact with an officer.
The proposed offense would be classified as a class E felony. If enacted, the bill would expand the state’s criminal code by creating a distinct felony charge for certain acts directed at police and peace officers, rather than relying only on existing assault, harassment, obstruction, or related offenses. The law would take effect 30 days after becoming law.
Impact
The bill would amend the Penal Law by adding a new felony offense, section 195.09, and would give prosecutors a specific charge for intentional interference with police or peace officers during official duties. It would affect individuals accused of physically interfering with officers, as well as law enforcement and the criminal justice system by creating an additional enforcement tool and potential basis for arrest, charging, and sentencing. Because it is a class E felony, the measure would expose defendants to more serious criminal penalties than misdemeanor-level conduct.
Sentiment
There is limited recorded discussion or voting history available for this bill, so the overall sentiment cannot be measured from committee debate or floor votes. Based on the bill text and sponsorship, the measure appears to be framed as a public-safety and officer-protection proposal, suggesting support from sponsors who want stronger penalties for interference with police. At the same time, the absence of recorded committee testimony or votes means there is no documented consensus in the provided materials.
Contention
The main point of contention is likely to be whether creating a new class E felony is necessary given existing criminal statutes that may already cover assault, harassment, resisting arrest, or obstruction-related conduct. Supporters would likely argue that the bill addresses direct, intentional interference with officers and provides clearer accountability for conduct such as spitting or physical contact. Critics may argue that the language is broad enough to capture a wide range of conduct, potentially increasing criminal exposure for relatively minor incidents or overlapping with existing offenses. No specific objections or supporters are identified in the provided record.