NY S02597

Establishes that family court shall be open to the public, including news media, with access to all courtrooms, lobbies, waiting areas, and other common areas

Permits judges to exclude individuals from courtrooms only on a case-by-case basis after considering factors such as potential disruption, objections from parties or child's attorney, privacy interests, protection of children from harm, and availability of less restrictive alternatives

Requires courts to make a finding on the record before ordering any exclusion of the public or news media from proceedings

Authorizes courts to instruct news media on permissible use of facilities, assign seating equitably, and address matters affecting proceedings and safety of parties

Preserves the authority of the chief administrator of the courts to prevent release of sensitive information about persons, including children, involved in court proceedings