Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon’s Co-Sponsored Bill to Expand Anti-Stalking Protections Passes Assembly
Albany, NY – Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon (D-119) is proud to announce the passage of Assembly Bill A867, which she co-sponsored to strengthen New York’s stalking laws and protect individuals from emerging digital threats. The bill passed the Assembly yesterday and has been delivered to the Senate for consideration.
A867 amends the New York State Penal Law to include Bluetooth technology in the definition of “following” as it relates to the crime of stalking in the fourth degree. With the rise of discreet tracking devices that rely on Bluetooth, this legislation addresses a critical gap in current law.
“As technology evolves, so must our laws,” said Assemblywoman Buttenschon. “This legislation ensures that we are protecting individuals from unwanted surveillance and harassment made possible through modern tools like Bluetooth-enabled trackers. No one should feel unsafe or be secretly followed by a device that fits in the palm of your hand.”
The bill, originally introduced by Assemblymember Deborah Glick, was co-sponsored by a coalition of lawmakers, including Assemblywoman Buttenschon, who has long championed public safety, community well-being, and victim advocacy. The measure updates Section 120.45 of the Penal Law to reflect technological advancements, closing a dangerous loophole that allowed Bluetooth-based stalking to go unaddressed in state statute.
Oneida County District Attorney Todd Carville praised the legislation, citing its relevance to law enforcement efforts on the ground.
“Over the last several years, technological advances have enhanced our ability to investigate crimes, but those advances have also been utilized by criminals to terrorize victims without violating the present-day law. One such example is the use of Bluetooth tracking devices to locate and stalk unsuspecting victims.
The District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Assemblywoman Buttenschon for recognizing the need to enact legislation to address the concerns of the modern-day technological era with respect to the criminal justice system.”
Stalking in the fourth degree is a Class B misdemeanor in New York State. By expanding the law’s definition of “following” to include Bluetooth technology, GPS devices, and other digital means, the bill ensures law enforcement and the courts can better respond to and prosecute these invasive behaviors.
“This is about protecting people’s right to privacy and security,” added Buttenschon. “I’m proud to stand with my colleagues to close this dangerous gap in our laws and give victims of stalking the protection and justice they deserve.”
This bill now moves to the Senate for further action.
