S4776

The New York State Senate passed legislation sponsored by Sen. Ryan to strengthen penalties for false reports involving weapons, particularly incidents known as 'swatting.' The bill passed unanimously 60-0 on a roll call vote. Sen. Ryan explained that false reports mimicking active shooter or violent threats have increased exponentially across the state, straining emergency systems and causing lasting trauma to students, parents and educators. Under current law, falsely reporting fires, explosions or hazardous materials releases around schools is a crime, but the statute has not kept pace with modern threats. The legislation provides law enforcement and prosecutors with tools to respond appropriately and deter the dangerous behavior, while strengthening school protections by treating false weapon threats with appropriate seriousness. The bill takes effect 60 days after becoming law.

The New York State Senate passed legislation sponsored by Sen. Chris Ryan to amend the Penal Law and address false reports of deadly weapons and dangerous instruments, commonly known as 'swatting.' The bill passed on a roll call vote, 58-0. Ryan spoke in support of the measure, characterizing swatting as malicious and deliberate acts that divert emergency services, instill fear, and cause trauma to students, educators, and families who have experienced gun violence in schools. He argued that current state law inadequately addresses the severity of such false reports and that the legislation will send a clear message that intentionally causing panic and misusing emergency response systems will not be tolerated. Ryan stated the bill serves both as punishment and as a deterrent to future incidents while holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. The measure now goes to the Assembly for consideration.