Loading chat...
NY S02289
Bill
Status
1/19/2023
Primary Sponsor
Pamela Helming
Click for details
AI Summary
-
Courts may permit courthouse facility dogs to assist witnesses in any judicial proceeding at their discretion.
-
Courts must allow witnesses under 18 years old or with developmental disabilities to use a courthouse facility dog during testimony if one is available.
-
Courthouse facility dogs and certified handlers are authorized to access courthouses, law enforcement locations, schools, medical facilities, public transportation, and other specified venues for program operations and witness support.
-
Parties seeking to use a courthouse facility dog must file a motion before trial establishing the dog's credentials, insurance coverage, prior relationship with the witness, and how the dog would reduce the witness's anxiety.
-
In jury trials, either party may question prospective jurors about potential bias from the dog's presence, and the court must provide jury instructions to prevent prejudice.
Legislative Description
Authorizes courts to exercise discretion permitting a courthouse facility dog for use by witnesses to be used in any judicial proceeding; provides that courts with an available courthouse facility dog must allow a witness under eighteen years of age, or who has a developmental disability, to use a courthouse facility dog to accompany such person while testifying in court; allows any witness who does not meet the criteria of being under eighteen years of age or having a developmental disability to use a courthouse facility dog, if available, to accompany them while testifying in court; defines terms; makes related provisions.
Last Action
REPORTED AND COMMITTED TO AGRICULTURE
5/7/2024