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A 7198

Relates to the unauthorized release of sealed records

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Monique Chandler-Waterman

A 7198 bans unauthorized release of sealed records, deters breaches, and strengthens safeguards to protect confidential court information for filings, staff, and the public.

REFERRED TO CODES
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 7198

Summary of New York A 7198 – Relates to Unauthorized Release of Sealed Records

Overview

A 7198 is a bill introduced on March 21, 2025 that addresses the unauthorized release of sealed records. The primary sponsor is Monique Chandler-Waterman. The measure has been referred to the Codes Committee.

Purpose and Intent

  • The bill aims to regulate and deter the unauthorized disclosure of records that have been sealed, with the goal of protecting the confidentiality and integrity of sealed court and related records.
  • By directing review to the Codes Committee, the measure signals a focus on criminal and enforcement provisions connected to public records and seal orders.

Key Provisions (Note: Full text not provided)

  • The exact statutory text and specific provisions are not included in the information available. Based on the title and typical framework for this topic, the bill would likely address:
    • Definitions of what constitutes “sealed records.”
    • Prohibitions on unauthorized release or disclosure of sealed records.
    • Penalties or sanctions for individuals or entities that disclose sealed records in violation of the law.
    • Enforcement mechanisms and responsible agencies or officials.
    • Exceptions or permissible disclosures (e.g., court orders, law enforcement, authorized personnel).
    • Procedures for handling and safeguarding sealed records to prevent inadvertent releases.
  • The bill could also outline civil remedies, investigative processes, and potential penalties for breaches of seal orders.

Affected Parties

  • Individuals or entities with access to sealed records (e.g., court personnel, attorneys, prosecutors, law enforcement, court reporters, and other designated officials).
  • Parties who have sealed records themselves or whose confidential information is contained in sealed documents.
  • General public implications would depend on enforcement provisions and any exceptions allowing compelled disclosure.

Legislative History and Related Bills

  • Primary sponsor: Monique Chandler-Waterman.
  • Related Bills (prior-session): A 6428, A 4337, A 3087, A 11389, A 350, A 34, A 254, A 6478.
  • Companion/Senate counterpart: S 7506 (listed as companion in the provided material).
  • Legislative actions so far: On 2025-03-21, the bill was referred to Codes (listed twice in the actions, indicating the same referral event).

Procedures and Timeline

  • Current status: Referred to the Codes Committee.
  • Next steps (typical process, not guaranteed): Committee hearings and potential amendments in Codes, committee vote, floor votes in the Assembly, consideration by the Senate if applicable, and eventual enactment or failure to pass.

Potential Impact

  • Increased protections against unauthorized disclosure of sealed records, potentially reducing privacy breaches and protecting individuals’ confidential information.
  • Possible impact on record custodians and agencies responsible for sealing and maintaining records, requiring tightened safeguards and clearer protocols.
  • Depending on final text, there could be new penalties (criminal or civil) for violations, influencing compliance practices across courts and related entities.

Note

This summary reflects the information available from the bill’s listing. The full text will provide specific definitions, provisions, exceptions, and penalty details essential for a precise understanding of A 7198’s scope and impact.

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

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