S.674/A.459 Relates to Vacating Convictions for Offenses Committed Due to Being a Victim of Sex Trafficking, Labor Trafficking and Compelling Prostitution
S.5325/A.6193 Requires Utility Companies to Allow Customers to Use Their Preferred Name and Pronouns
Governor Kathy Hochul today signed legislation at the LGBT Community Center aimed at expanding protections for the LGBTQ+ community and those who have been victims of sex trafficking. The START Act relates to vacating convictions for offenses committed due to being a victim of sex trafficking, labor trafficking, and compelling prostitution. Bill S.5325/A.6193 requires utility companies to allow customers to use their preferred name and pronouns.
"As we witness attacks on LGBTQ+ rights and protections around the country, New York is once again declaring that we are a state for all - one where we don't needlessly criminalize victims and where our trans, gender non-binary, and gender non-conforming communities are affirmed," Governor Hochul said. "My administration is committed to equality and safety for everyone and New York is able to lead the way because of the work of our tireless advocates and our partners in the legislature. Together we will continue to build a state that is welcoming to all."
Legislation S.674/A.459, the START Act, strengthens protections for victims of sex trafficking, labor trafficking, compelling prostitution, and trafficking in persons, who are convicted of a range of offenses as a result of that trafficking or compelling. This legislation builds on a law passed in 2010 in New York allowing victims of human trafficking to vacate prostitution-related criminal convictions that were directly tied to their victimization.
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