New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S06306

Introduced
3/10/25  
Refer
3/10/25  

Caption

Relates to unlawful surveillance; adds additional actions constituting unlawful surveillance in the second degree and in the first degree.

Summary

Bill S06306 aims to amend the New York penal law regarding unlawful surveillance by expanding the definitions of unlawful surveillance in both the second and first degrees. The bill introduces new provisions that criminalize the use of imaging devices to surreptitiously view or record individuals in situations where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy, specifically under their clothing or in private dwellings. It also establishes that committing such acts for sexual arousal or gratification constitutes trespass, thereby elevating the severity of the offense.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would strengthen the legal framework surrounding unlawful surveillance in New York, making it clearer and more comprehensive. It would enhance protections for individuals against invasive surveillance practices, particularly in private settings, and impose stricter penalties for repeat offenders. The bill's provisions could lead to increased prosecutions for unlawful surveillance and potentially deter individuals from engaging in such behavior.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S06306 appears to be generally supportive among advocates for privacy rights and victim protection. However, there may be concerns from some groups regarding the implications for personal privacy and the potential for overreach in surveillance regulations. As the bill has not yet been voted on, detailed voting sentiment remains to be seen.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the balance between privacy rights and the implications for law enforcement and surveillance technologies. Critics may argue that the bill could hinder legitimate surveillance activities, while supporters emphasize the need for stronger protections against invasive practices. The discussions may also highlight concerns about the definitions of 'reasonable expectation of privacy' and how they are applied in various contexts.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY S06340

Makes conducting unlawful surveillance by use of a drone unlawful surveillance in the second degree.

NY A00413

Expands unlawful surveillance in the first degree to include instances where the surveillance is of a person who has an active order of protection against them.

NY S09438

Expands unlawful surveillance in the first degree to include instances where the surveillance is of a person who has an active order of protection against them.

NY S01450

Establishes the crimes of unlawful purchase of body armor in the first and second degree; establishes the crimes of unlawful sale of body armor in the first and second degree.

NY HB449

Crimes and offenses; crimes of unlawful use of DNA in the first, second, and third degree created, criminal penalties provided

NY S08460

Adds possessing a flare gun with intent to use it unlawfully against another to the crime of criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree.

NY A07855

Establishes the crimes of unlawful dissemination or publication of intimate images in the first, second, and third degree; defines terms and clarifies application of provisions relating to such crimes; extends the statute of limitations for such crimes; repeals provisions relating thereto.

NY S07202

Establishes the crimes of unlawful dissemination or publication of intimate images in the first, second, and third degree; defines terms and clarifies application of provisions relating to such crimes; extends the statute of limitations for such crimes; repeals provisions relating thereto.

NY S00524

Establishes the crime of voyeurism in the first and second degree which is defined as when someone for their own amusement, entertainment, profit, sexual arousal or sexual gratification trespasses or uses an instrument to observe for the purpose of viewing a person dressing or undressing or the sexual or other intimate parts of such person at a place and time when such person has a reasonable expectation of privacy, without such person's knowledge or consent.

NY HB2252

In sexual offenses, further providing for the offense of unlawful dissemination of intimate image.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.