New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S04624

Introduced
2/10/25  
Refer
2/10/25  

Caption

Establishes the crime of assault on a pregnant individual as a class D felony.

Summary

Bill S04624, known as the 'Liv Act', aims to establish a new crime in New York penal law: assault on a pregnant individual. The bill defines this offense as intentionally or knowingly causing injury to a person whom the perpetrator knows or has reason to know is pregnant. The definition of 'injury' includes bodily harm that results in the termination of a pregnancy. The bill proposes that assault on a pregnant individual be classified as a class D felony, which carries specific legal consequences and penalties under New York law.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would amend the New York penal law to include a new category of assault specifically targeting pregnant individuals. It would create legal protections for pregnant individuals against violence that could lead to harm or termination of their pregnancy. The bill also clarifies that certain actions, such as those performed by the pregnant individual themselves or medical professionals providing lawful treatment, would not fall under this new offense, thus ensuring that the law is applied fairly and consistently with existing health regulations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S04624 appears to be supportive among advocates for women's rights and protections for pregnant individuals. However, there may be concerns regarding the implications for medical professionals and the potential for misuse of the law in cases involving pregnancy-related medical decisions. The absence of recorded votes or committee discussions suggests that the bill's reception is still developing and may require further debate.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from the bill's implications for medical practices and the definitions of 'injury' and 'assault.' Critics may argue about the potential for the law to interfere with medical treatment decisions or to criminalize actions taken in the context of healthcare. Supporters, on the other hand, emphasize the need for stronger protections for pregnant individuals against violence and harm.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY A02198

Establishes the crimes of assault on a pregnant person in the second degree as a class D felony and assault on a pregnant person in the first degree as a class C felony.

NY S08895

Establishes a new assault crime for an assault on a retired police officer who previously arrested the assailant; establishes that assaulting such a retired police officer with intent to seek retribution is assault in the first degree.

NY A10282

Establishes a new assault crime for an assault on a retired police officer who previously arrested the assailant; establishes that assaulting such a retired police officer with intent to seek retribution is assault in the first degree.

NY A08954

Categorizes the assault of a code enforcement official or other individual responsible for building inspection performing their lawful duties under such position as a class D felony.

NY HB4179

To create felony charge for individuals who assault police officers or police dogs

NY HB3065

To create felony charge for individuals who assault police officers or police dogs

NY S08873

Enacts the "first responders assault prevention act" which increases the offense classification for assault on a peace officer, police officer, firefighter or emergency medical services professional from a class C felony to a class B felony.

NY S08579

Elevates assault of an employee of the New York city department of parks and recreation to a class D felony.

NY A09110

Elevates assault of an employee of the New York city department of parks and recreation to a class D felony.

NY HB4532

Crimes: assaultive; crime of assaulting a person performing job-related duties; expand to include health professionals. Amends secs. 81, 81a & 81d of 1931 PA 328 (MCL 750.81 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4534'25, HB 4535'25

Similar Bills

CA AB923

Detention and incarceration of pregnant and postpartum defendants.

CA AB1880

PINK Alert.

TN SB1681

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 63 and Title 68, relative to medical facility procedures for women experiencing certain medical conditions.

TN HB1943

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 63 and Title 68, relative to medical facility procedures for women experiencing certain medical conditions.

NJ S3794

Requires DOH to prepare resource guide on preeclampsia and gestational diabetes for distribution to pregnant persons.

MS SB2390

Medicaid; remove proof of income requirement from presumptive eligibility for pregnant women.

MS HB662

Medicaid; revise criteria for presumptive eligibility for pregnant women to conform to federal laws and regulations.

IN SB0001

Abortion.