New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S07448

Introduced
4/16/25  
Refer
4/16/25  

Caption

Provides that possession of a condom or other reproductive or sexual health device may not be received in evidence in any trial, hearing or proceeding as evidence of conduct which would constitute an offense defined in article 230 of the penal law.

Impact

By enshrining this prohibition into law, Bill S07448 aims to bolster public health initiatives and protect individual rights. The bill strives to ensure that health-related tools are not confiscated or used against individuals in legal contexts, thereby encouraging safe practices and access to crucial health devices without fear of legal repercussions. This legislative change reflects an understanding of the intersection between public health and law enforcement, promoting a shift towards health-oriented and rights-based responses in law enforcement efforts.

Summary

Bill S07448, titled the 'End Criminalization of Condoms Act', seeks to amend New York State laws by prohibiting the possession of condoms and other reproductive or sexual health devices from being admissible as evidence in trials or proceedings related to certain criminal offenses outlined in article 230 of the Penal Law. The legislation is grounded in public health principles, positing that the current practice of using such items as evidence contributes to the stigmatization and vulnerability of individuals involved in the sex trade, particularly survivors of trafficking.

Contention

Despite these protective intentions, there are potential points of contention surrounding this bill. Opponents of similar legislation might argue that it could complicate law enforcement's ability to address prostitution and trafficking, as the lack of such evidence could hinder their prosecutorial efforts for related criminal activities. Additionally, there are concerns regarding the balance between protecting individual rights and ensuring societal safety, raising important discussions about the responsibilities and powers of law enforcement in sensitive contexts.

Companion Bills

NY A00178

Same As Provides that possession of a condom or other reproductive or sexual health device may not be received in evidence in any trial, hearing or proceeding as evidence of conduct which would constitute an offense defined in article 230 of the penal law.

Previously Filed As

NY S09798

Provides that possession of a condom or other reproductive or sexual health device may not be received in evidence in any trial, hearing or proceeding as evidence of conduct which would constitute an offense defined in article 230 of the penal law.

NY A00178

Provides that possession of a condom or other reproductive or sexual health device may not be received in evidence in any trial, hearing or proceeding as evidence of conduct which would constitute an offense defined in article 230 of the penal law.

NY A09186

Prohibits the introduction of evidence of a victim's sexual conduct, sexual predisposition, or manner of dress; defines "sexual conduct"; requires the motion, related materials, and the record of the hearing be and remain sealed.

NY S09894

Prohibits the admissibility of evidence of a victim's sexual conduct, sexual predisposition, or manner of dress in civil actions or proceedings; provides limited exceptions.

NY A09417

Prohibits the admissibility of evidence of a victim's sexual conduct, sexual predisposition, or manner of dress in civil actions or proceedings; provides limited exceptions.

NY S09585

Requires that all sexual offense evidence shall be kept in a locked, separate and secure area for twenty years from the date of collection or until the victim's fortieth birthday, whichever is later; makes other sexual offense evidence collection kit procedures.

NY A10542

Requires that all sexual offense evidence shall be kept in a locked, separate and secure area for twenty years from the date of collection or until the victim's fortieth birthday, whichever is later; makes other sexual offense evidence collection kit procedures.

NY S09758

Provides that any writing or record made as a memorandum or record of any act, transaction, occurrence or event, may be received in grand jury proceedings as evidence of proof that such act, transaction, occurrence or event, if it was made in the regular course of any business.

NY A07896

Provides that any writing or record made as a memorandum or record of any act, transaction, occurrence or event, may be received in grand jury proceedings as evidence of proof that such act, transaction, occurrence or event, if it was made in the regular course of any business.

NY A06382

Relates to the use in evidence of the fact of possession or presence on the premises of condoms and other sexual and reproductive health devices.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.