New York Assembly Bill A04678

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/4/25
• Refer: 2/4/25

Caption

Prohibits recording of the entrance or exit of a school ground or the entrance or exit to a property that contains school grounds within its boundaries.

Impact

If enacted, A04678 would specifically amend Section 240.26 of the penal law to introduce provisions that classify the act of recording school entrances and exits as second-degree harassment. This change would provide legal grounds for prohibiting such actions and potentially subject violators to liability under harassment laws, emphasizing the protection of individuals in school environments from unwanted scrutiny and harassment.

Summary

Bill A04678 proposes amendments to the penal law that prohibits the recording of entrances and exits to school grounds, as well as properties that contain school grounds. The intent of the bill is to enhance the safety and privacy of students, staff, and visitors by preventing unauthorized recording and surveillance activities that could be considered intrusive or threatening. This legislative initiative emerges from ongoing concerns about school safety and the potential misuse of recorded material for harmful intents.

Contention

Debates surrounding Bill A04678 are likely to revolve around the balance between protecting individual privacy and the implications for freedom of expression regarding public spaces. Supporters of the bill argue that it is essential to protect the safety of minors and maintain a secure educational environment. However, opponents may raise concerns about the limitations this places on legitimate documentation, reporting activities, or parental oversight, suggesting a careful examination of the contexts in which recording might occur harmlessly or even beneficially.