Senator Golden Announces Passage of Child Protection Legislation

ALBANY– State Senator Martin J. Golden (R-C-I, Brooklyn) today is announcing that the New York State Senate has passed two important bills that he sponsored, S. 1269 and S. 3459, that will further protect children from harm throughout the Empire State.

Senate Bill 1269 amends the current penal law to mandate a first degree murder charge for anyone who murders a child under that age of 12. This will give prosecutors the legal means to seek the appropriate punishment for this heinous crime. (A. 4918, Assemblymember Cook).

Senate Bill 3459, amends the social services law, in relation to requiring child protective services to document home visits with photographs. This legislation would provide greater accountability and safety regarding caseworker visits to children in the child protective services and foster care system. (A. 7484, Assemblymember Persaud).

Senator Marty Golden stated, “One of the most important responsibilities of legislators is to ensure that there are laws and procedures in place that effectively protect citizens of all ages. Our children are our most cherished and most vulnerable citizens. I am confident that these pieces of legislation will help to keep our children safe. Although this is great step in the right direction, we must remain vigilant to ensure that every child is protected from violence and live happy and healthy lives.”

The bills were sent to the Assembly.