BILL NUMBER: S8932
SPONSOR: MATTERA
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the executive law, in relation to establishing a
persistent domestic violence offender registry
 
PURPOSE:
To create a domestic violence offender registry similar to the sex
offender registry. To give a tool to protect the public when dating,
hiring or going about their daily lives.
 
SUMMARY:
Section 1. Short title. This act shall be known and may be cited as
"Savanna's Law"
Sections 2. The executive law is amended by adding a new section 837-aa
Section 3 Effective Date
 
JUSTIFICATION:
Domestic violence is an ongoing and unacceptable issue that has affected
many New York State residents and there is an inherent responsibility to
assist in providing New Yorkers with the tools they need to actively
protect themselves. In short, New York State has an obligation to
protect those who are potentially vulnerable and ensure that the voices
of those who were victimized are heard.
Since domestic violence often follows a pattern of escalation, repeat
offenders pose an increased risk to victims, their families, and the
broader community. Despite this reality, members of the public currently
have limited access to consolidated, accurate information regarding
individuals with multiple domestic violence convictions,. This bill
addresses that gap by creating a centralized, publicly accessible regis-
try containing essential identifying information, including the
offender's name, date of birth, conviction date, county of conviction,
and photography.
The Domestic Violence Registry a very needed level of clarity to New
Yorkers by providing real information on those who have been convicted
of persistent domestic violence offenses. By increasing transparency and
accountability, this legislation empowers individuals, families, and
communities to make informed decisions while reinforcing the State's
commitment to public safety.
And by limiting inclusion to repeat offenders who have been duly
convicted by a court of law, this bill strikes a careful balance between
public safety and due process. Importantly, sensitive personal informa-
tion such as home addresses, Social Security numbers, and identification
numbers are expressly excluded to prevent misuse and protect privacy.
By enhancing transparency, strengthening protections for victims, and
holding repeat offenders accountable, this legislation reinforces New
York State's longstanding commitment to combating domestic violence.
Savanna's Law provides survivors with meaningful tools, sends a clear
message that domestic violence will not be tolerated, and helps prevent
future harm by shining a light on patterns of abuse that too often
remain hidden.
 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
New Bill
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS FOR STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS:
None.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect January 1, 2027