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A 9061

Relates to creating the crime of aggravated harassment of a survivor of domestic violence or sexual assault

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Marianne Buttenschon and 3 co-sponsors

Creates a new crime, aggravated harassment of a survivor of domestic violence or sexual assault, with defined elements and penalties to protect survivors and guide enforcement.

REFERRED TO CODES
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Bill Summary · A 9061

Summary of Assembly Bill A 9061

Overview

A 9061, titled “Relates to creating the crime of aggravated harassment of a survivor of domestic violence or sexual assault,” proposes to establish a new offense designed to protect survivors of domestic violence (DV) and sexual assault from targeted, aggravating harassment. The bill was introduced on September 5, 2025, and has been referred to the Codes Committee in the Assembly. The record shows two identical entries for the referral.

What the bill would do

  • Create a new criminal offense described as aggravated harassment of a survivor of domestic violence or sexual assault.
  • Establish the elements, definitions, and penalties associated with this offense within New York State law.
  • Likely provide specific protections for individuals identified as survivors of DV or sexual assault, recognizing the heightened harm and vulnerability faced by these populations.

Note: The text of the bill is not provided here, so the precise elements of the offense (jury instructions, mens rea, location or circumstance requirements, and penalties) are not specified in this summary. The accompanying materials (bill text, committee memos) would detail these components.

Key provisions (anticipated based on the bill’s title)

  • Creation of a standalone crime: aggravated harassment targeting a survivor of DV or sexual assault.
  • Definitions: the bill would define who qualifies as a “survivor” and what constitutes “aggravated harassment.”
  • Elements and penalties: the bill would specify the conduct that constitutes the offense and the corresponding penalties (e.g., degrees, potential fines, incarceration, or enhancements).
  • Defenses and exemptions: potential provisions addressing lawful conduct or circumstances that would negate culpability.
  • Enforcement and prosecutorial guidance: instructions for law enforcement and prosecutors on handling complaints and charging decisions.

Who would be affected

  • Primary targets: individuals who harass survivors of domestic violence or sexual assault in ways that meet the offense’s defined elements.
  • Survivors: potential beneficiaries of the enhanced protection against harassment.
  • Law enforcement, district attorneys/prosecutors, and the judiciary: would apply and adjudicate the new offense.
  • Support organizations and service providers for DV/sexual assault survivors may see changes in reporting and collaboration with authorities.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introduced: September 5, 2025.
  • Status: Referred to the Codes Committee in the Assembly (two entries in the record).
  • Related activity: has companion and related bills in prior sessions (see “Related Bills” below).

Related and companion bills

  • S 8080 (prior-session)
  • A 8687 (prior-session)
  • A 7922 (prior-session)
  • S 3935 (companion) listed twice (indicating a companion Senate bill)

Sponsors

  • Primary: Jo Anne Simon
  • Cosponsors: Phil Steck, Marianne Buttenschon, Albert A. Stirpe

Potential impact and considerations

  • Public safety and survivor protection: aims to provide a targeted tool to deter and punish harassment against DV/sexual assault survivors.
  • Legal and resource implications: may require training for law enforcement and prosecutors, as well as adjustments in case handling and victim support services.
  • Clarity and implementation: the exact elements, definitions, and penalties will determine the reach of the bill and potential for enforcement or unintended consequences.

For a complete understanding, review the official bill text, committee memos, and any fiscal impact statements once available.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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