S1985

The New York State Senate passed S1985, a Criminal Procedure Law amendment sponsored by Sen. Harckham, on a 37-20 vote. The bill, which takes effect immediately, addresses weapon seizure in domestic abuse cases involving defendants released under bail reform. Opposition centered on concerns that the legislation could result in seizure of victims' firearms while abusers are released on appearance tickets. Sen. Borrello, voting against the measure, argued the bill contains a critical flaw that disarms victims while freeing perpetrators, and contended that incarceration rather than release would eliminate the need for such seizure provisions. Twenty senators voted against the bill, primarily on Second Amendment and victim protection grounds.