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S 8021

Requires the development and implementation of a tattoo policy by law enforcement agencies

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Michelle Hinchey

Requires NY law enforcement agencies to adopt a written tattoo policy for sworn officers, recruits, and uniformed staff, boosting transparency, consistency, and fair discipline.

REFERRED TO CODES
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 8021

Summary — S.8021 (Hinchey)

Requires the development and implementation of a tattoo policy by law enforcement agencies

Purpose / Intent

S.8021 directs law enforcement agencies to adopt a written tattoo policy. The bill’s stated intent (as reflected in the bill title and legislative history) is to ensure consistent, transparent rules governing tattoos among law enforcement personnel — a measure likely aimed at addressing concerns about officer appearance, symbols that may signal bias or affiliation with extremist groups, and public trust in policing.

Note: The uploaded version content did not include legible statutory text. The summary below is based on the bill title, sponsor information, amendment history and committee actions in the legislative record. Specific statutory language and exact requirements should be consulted in the official bill text (print numbers 8021A / 8021B and companion A8492).

Key provisions (based on bill purpose and standard provisions typically included)

Because the official bill text is not legible in the provided materials, the following lists the types of requirements S.8021 is intended to impose (and which are commonly found in tattoo-policy bills):

  • Requirement that each state, county and municipal law enforcement agency adopt a written tattoo policy within a specified timeframe.
  • Definition of scope — who the policy covers (sworn officers, recruits, cadets, civilian personnel working in uniformed roles).
  • Prohibited content or symbols (e.g., hate symbols, extremist imagery) or criteria to evaluate tattoos that may undermine public confidence or signal bias.
  • Rules on visibility (tattoos that must be covered while on duty) and limitations on tattoos in uniformed/official appearances.
  • Procedures for disclosure/registration of tattoos by personnel and for review/approval of tattoos during hiring.
  • Training and guidance for supervisors on enforcement and nondiscriminatory application.
  • Recordkeeping, reporting, and potential disciplinary consequences for violations.
  • Implementation timeline and any state oversight or model-policy template (may direct a state agency to issue guidance).

Who would be affected

  • All law enforcement agencies operating under New York law (state police, sheriff’s offices, municipal police departments, other local law enforcement bodies) — depending on bill scope.
  • Current sworn officers, recruits and potentially uniformed civilian employees.
  • Human resources and training divisions within agencies, which would develop, maintain and enforce policies.

Procedural status and timeline

  • Introduced: May 15, 2025 (Sponsor: Sen. Michelle Hinchey)
  • Print numbers and amendments: Printed as 8021A (5/27/2025); amended on third reading as 8021B (6/9/2025)
  • Senate actions: Ordered to third reading (6/9/2025); Committee discharged and committed to Rules (6/9/2025); Passed Senate (6/12/2025) — bill was delivered to the Assembly the same day.
  • Assembly status: Referred to the Assembly Codes Committee (6/12/2025). Further action pending in Assembly Codes.

Potential impacts and considerations

  • Increased consistency and transparency across agencies on tattoos and symbols displayed by officers.
  • Administrative work for agencies to draft, train on, and enforce policies; possible costs for training and policy implementation.
  • Potential effects on hiring and discipline if tattoos are restricted; legal considerations regarding free expression, medical conditions, religious accommodations, or discrimination claims.
  • May improve community trust where tattoos or symbols are a source of concern; effectiveness depends on policy detail and fair, culturally sensitive application.

Next steps

  • Consult the official bill text (8021A / 8021B) and companion Assembly bill A.8492 for the precise requirements, definitions, compliance deadlines, exemptions and enforcement mechanisms.
  • Monitor the Assembly Codes Committee for hearings, amendments and a floor vote.

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

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