BILL NUMBER: S7271
SPONSOR: WALCZYK
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the penal law, in relation to criminal mischief in the
third degree
 
PURPOSE:
This bill broadens the definition of criminal mischief to include damag-
ing property to suppress or promote a political ideology.
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1: The opening paragraph and subdivision 2 of section 145.05 2
of the penal law, as amended by chapter 276 of the laws of 2003, are
amended and add a new subdivision 3
Section 2: Provides the effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
Political protesters, while often peaceful, sometimes take their anger
out on private property. Most recently, protesters have targeted Tesla
dealerships and owners with vandalism. They have keyed cars, drawn
swastikas on them, and even set some ablaze. These attacks are a direct
result of opposition to Elon Musk's political activity. Regardless of
individuals' political ideology, the State has an obligation to protect
private property from these types of attacks. This bill would include
damaging property to suppress or promote a political ideology in the
definition of criminal mischief in the third degree, which will make
prosecution of this crime easier.
 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
New bill.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
None.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
First of November succeeding the date on which it becomes a law.