NY S00481

Expands the use of video monitoring equipment for electronic court appearances from a specific list of 37 named counties to any county in New York State

Allows courts discretion to conduct electronic appearances in lieu of personal appearances for defendants in criminal actions, except for hearings or trials

Requires the chief administrator of the courts to authorize electronic appearances and the defendant to consent on the record after consulting with counsel

Mandates that defendant consent be obtained at the commencement of each electronic appearance

Takes effect immediately upon enactment