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Bill

S 3935

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

2025 Regular Session Introduced by James Skoufis

Bill S 3935 criminalizes aggravated harassment against domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, enhancing legal protections and penalties for offenders.

REFERRED TO CODES
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 3935

Summary of Bill S 3935

Overview

Bill S 3935 aims to establish the crime of aggravated harassment specifically targeting survivors of domestic violence or sexual assault. This legislation seeks to enhance protections for vulnerable individuals who have experienced such trauma by criminalizing certain forms of harassment.

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of Bill S 3935 is to provide legal recourse for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault who face ongoing harassment. By creating a specific crime of aggravated harassment, the bill aims to deter potential offenders and offer survivors a means to seek justice and protection under the law.

Key Provisions

  • Definition of Aggravated Harassment: The bill defines aggravated harassment as any intentional act of harassment that targets a survivor of domestic violence or sexual assault, with the intent to cause emotional distress or fear.
  • Increased Penalties: Offenders found guilty of aggravated harassment under this bill would face enhanced penalties compared to standard harassment charges. This may include longer prison sentences and higher fines.
  • Legal Protections: The bill would provide survivors with additional legal protections, allowing them to pursue restraining orders and other legal remedies more effectively.
  • Support Services: The legislation may also include provisions for connecting survivors with support services, such as counseling and legal assistance.

Affected Parties

  • Survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are individuals who have survived domestic violence or sexual assault and are facing harassment as a result.
  • Law Enforcement: Police and legal authorities will need to adapt to the new definitions and penalties outlined in the bill, potentially requiring additional training and resources.
  • Legal System: Courts may see an increase in cases related to aggravated harassment, necessitating adjustments in handling and processing these cases.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced Date: The bill was introduced on January 30, 2025.
  • Current Status: As of now, the bill has been referred to the Codes Committee for further consideration.
  • Related Legislation: Bill S 3935 is related to several prior-session bills (S 8080, S 1880, S 2789) and has a companion bill in the Assembly (A 9061), indicating ongoing legislative interest in addressing harassment against survivors.

Conclusion

Bill S 3935 represents a significant step towards enhancing the legal framework protecting survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault from harassment. By establishing aggravated harassment as a specific crime, the bill aims to provide stronger legal protections and support for those affected by such traumatic experiences. The bill is currently under review, and its progress will be closely monitored by advocates and stakeholders in the field of domestic violence and sexual assault prevention.

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

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