NY S05680

Amends Penal Law Section 150.20 to expand the definition of arson in the first degree to include fires or explosions that are "accelerated by" ignitable liquids, flammable gases, or incendiary devices, in addition to those "caused by" such materials.

Expands the definition of incendiary device from a "breakable container" to a broader "device designed to produce uncontained combustion or used as a source of ignition."

Adds language specifying that incendiary devices can be "otherwise dispersed or distributed" in addition to being "propelled, thrown, or placed" inside or near a building or motor vehicle.

Maintains that arson in the first degree requires another non-participant person be present in the building or motor vehicle at the time of the offense, and that the defendant knows or reasonably should know of that presence.

Takes effect thirty days after becoming law; arson in the first degree remains a class A-I felony.