NY S00970

Expands the definition of "child witness" (persons 14 years old or less) to include those testifying in cases involving assault (Article 120) and endangering the welfare of a child (Section 260.10), in addition to existing sex offense and incest cases

Allows child witnesses in assault and child endangerment cases to testify via closed-circuit television when deemed vulnerable, rather than facing the defendant directly in the courtroom

Permits prior statements made by child witnesses regarding assault or child endangerment allegations to be admissible at vulnerability hearings, consistent with existing rules for sex offense cases

Takes effect immediately and applies to criminal proceedings conducted on or after the effective date