Establishes the "free speech protection act"; prevents the transfer of information on legal protest activities to the federal government; establishes a civil right of action for violations of the act.
Impact
If enacted, the Free Speech Protection Act would significantly alter the relationship between state law enforcement and federal agencies. It would prohibit the transfer of information regarding lawful protest activities, thereby safeguarding individuals’ rights under both the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and corresponding provisions in the New York State Constitution. This change is expected to shield individuals from federal legal repercussions stemming from participation in peaceful protests.
Summary
A09300, known as the 'Free Speech Protection Act', aims to fortify the rights of individuals engaging in protected expressive activities such as protests and demonstrations in New York. The bill specifically seeks to prevent state and local law enforcement agencies from cooperating with federal authorities in investigations related to these activities. This legislative measure emerges from growing concerns over privacy and the federal government's potential overreach in surveilling and penalizing lawful dissent.
Contention
The act has generated both support and criticism among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Proponents argue that the law is essential for protecting civil liberties and ensuring that citizens can freely express their dissent without fear of federal retaliation. On the other hand, critics raise concerns regarding the potential implications for law enforcement’s ability to address unlawful activities that may arise during protests, arguing that it could hinder legitimate investigations into crimes that are intertwined with civil unrest.
Establishes the "Malcom X unsolved civil rights crime act"; requires the assistant attorney of the civil rights bureau to investigate violations of criminal civil rights statutes that occurred not later than December thirty-first, nineteen seventy-nine, and resulted in a death.
Specifies that professional liability insurance insurers cannot deny coverage or increase rates solely based on legal use or prescription of certain gender-affirming care-related drugs; prescribes procedures for warrants issued in other jurisdictions for electronic data related to legally protected health activities; provides for additional procedural methods for protection of legally protected health activities.
Specifies that professional liability insurance insurers cannot deny coverage or increase rates solely based on legal use or prescription of certain gender-affirming care-related drugs; prescribes procedures for warrants issued in other jurisdictions for electronic data related to legally protected health activities; provides for additional procedural methods for protection of legally protected health activities.
Provides protection to employees and former employees from retaliatory actions by employers for the reporting of illegal or dangerous business activities.