NY S01839

Adds clergy members, religious ministers, and Christian Science practitioners to the list of individuals who cannot claim valid consent from victims during sexual offenses committed in a pastoral counseling context

Applies to specific offenses including third-degree rape, fourth-degree aggravated sexual abuse, and third-degree sexual abuse when occurring during pastoral counseling services

Victims covered include members or adherents of organized churches or religious groups who receive pastoral counseling from the accused clergy member

Creates a marriage defense provision for cases where the victim's lack of consent is based solely on their status as a church member receiving pastoral counseling from the accused

Takes effect 30 days after becoming law