New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S06229

Introduced
3/6/25  

Caption

Permits the admissibility into evidence of statements in learned treatises, periodicals, or pamphlets if the statement is called to the attention of an expert witness and the publication is established as a reliable authority by the expert's admission or testimony, by another expert's testimony, or by judicial notice.

Summary

Bill S06229 proposes an amendment to the civil practice law and rules in New York, specifically introducing a new section that addresses the admissibility of statements found in learned treatises, periodicals, or pamphlets in court proceedings. The bill stipulates that such statements can be admitted into evidence if they are brought to the attention of an expert witness during cross-examination or relied upon by the expert during direct examination. Additionally, the publication must be established as a reliable authority through the expert's admission, testimony from another expert, or judicial notice.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would modify existing evidentiary rules in New York, allowing for a broader acceptance of expert testimony that references scholarly or professional publications. This change could enhance the ability of experts to support their opinions with established literature, potentially influencing the outcomes of civil cases where expert testimony is critical. The bill aims to streamline the process of admitting relevant expert evidence, thereby impacting how courts evaluate the credibility and reliability of expert witnesses and their sources.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S06229 appears to be generally supportive among legal experts and practitioners who recognize the importance of allowing expert testimony to reference established literature. However, there may be concerns regarding the potential for misuse or over-reliance on certain publications that could affect the fairness of trials. The lack of recorded votes or extensive committee discussions suggests that the bill has not yet faced significant opposition or scrutiny, but this could change as it progresses through the legislative process.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the definition of what constitutes a 'reliable authority' and how this determination is made. Critics may argue that allowing statements from treatises and periodicals could lead to the inclusion of biased or unverified information in court proceedings. Additionally, there may be concerns from those who advocate for stricter evidentiary standards, fearing that this bill could lower the threshold for admissibility of certain types of evidence.

Companion Bills

NY A06983

Same As Permits the admissibility into evidence of statements in learned treatises, periodicals, or pamphlets if the statement is called to the attention of an expert witness and the publication is established as a reliable authority by the expert's admission or testimony, by another expert's testimony, or by judicial notice.

Previously Filed As

NY S00531

Permits the admissibility into evidence of statements in learned treatises, periodicals, or pamphlets if the statement is called to the attention of an expert witness and the publication is established as a reliable authority by the expert's admission or testimony, by another expert's testimony, or by judicial notice.

NY A06983

Permits the admissibility into evidence of statements in learned treatises, periodicals, or pamphlets if the statement is called to the attention of an expert witness and the publication is established as a reliable authority by the expert's admission or testimony, by another expert's testimony, or by judicial notice.

WI SB459

Admissibility of expert witness testimony.

WI AB458

Admissibility of expert witness testimony.

MO SB1309

Modifies provisions relating to the admissibility of expert testimony evidence

MO SB918

Modifies provisions relating to the admissibility of expert testimony evidence

MO SB238

Modifies provisions relating to the admissibility of expert testimony evidence

MO SB313

Modifies provisions relating to court procedure, including the admissibility of expert testimony evidence and Supreme Court Rule 52.08 relating to class actions

OK HB2628

Civil procedure; testimony of experts; effective date.

OK HB2628

Civil procedure; testimony of experts; effective date.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.