NY S08859

Amends Penal Law Section 120.05 to add operators and crew members of passenger commuter ferries to the list of protected classes under second degree assault statutes.

Defines protected ferry operators and crew according to subdivision (n) of Section 300 of the Tax Law.

Extends assault in the second degree protections to ferry personnel performing assigned duties, consistent with existing protections for transit workers, bus operators, train staff, and emergency medical personnel.

Updates pronouns from "he or she" to "such person" for gender-neutral language throughout the statute.

Takes effect immediately upon enactment.