S1714

The New York State Senate passed legislation sponsored by Sen. Brouk to amend the Public Health Law regarding the use of 'excited delirium' in death investigations, with a vote of 45-17. The bill seeks to eliminate the use of the term, which Brouk characterized as a discredited, pseudo-scientific concept rooted in racist practices. Brouk cited the 2020 death of Daniel Prude in Rochester and referenced George Floyd's death, noting that Black individuals account for 43 percent of in-custody deaths attributed to excited delirium despite representing only 13 percent of the U.S. population. She stated that major medical organizations including the American Medical Association and American Psychiatric Association have opposed the term's use, and that Colorado, California, and Minnesota have already banned it. The legislation aims to promote accountability and advance criminal justice reform by eliminating what Brouk called a practice that has 'wreaked harm on Black individuals.' Seventeen senators voted against the measure.

The Senate passed Senate Print 1714, sponsored by Senator Martinez, by a vote of 61-1 on a roll call. The bill amends Chapter 397 of the Laws of 1996 and takes effect immediately. Senator Skoufis cast the sole vote in opposition. The measure was processed with a home-rule message before proceeding to the vote.