The Power of the Pen: Legislation Strengthens Protections for Minors Against Felony Sex Offenders

Governor Andrew Cuomo signed legislation (S2836C/A4784C) strengthening protections for minors against felony sex offenders. This prevents minors from being placed in the custody of an individual who has been convicted of rape in the first or second degree, sexual conduct against a child in the first degree or predatory sexual assault against a child. The new law specifically prohibits courts from placing a child in the custody of an adult who previously committed a felony sexual offense against them. 

Additionally, this measure prevents sex offenders from having unsupervised visits with a person who has been convicted of a felony sexual offense against the subject of the visitation order. Although courts already consider these factors in determining whether to place a child in custody of or allow unsupervised visits with an individual, this new law now mandates such a requirement.

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Bonus Announcement

Governor Cuomo today signed legislation (S.1872/A.220) giving the Authorities Budget Office the power to suspend local authority board members or executive staff for failure to submit any report required by public authorities law section 2800. Previously, the ABO was only permitted to make recommendations and issue public censure letters to delinquent local authorities.

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Source: The Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo