Release #398-99

"Yesterday, New York State joined with every other state in the nation in passing anti-stalking legislation. For too long, our state's laws provided little or no recourse for stalking victims who live in constant fear that harassment will escalate into violence. As part of New York City's ongoing comprehensive campaign to fight domestic violence, the passage of this legislation was a top priority.

"The Clinic Access and Anti Stalking Act recognizes the gaps in our current state law by criminalizing conduct that amounts to stalking. Nationally, stalkers victimize over a million people each year with conduct including repeated unwanted phone calls and letters, threats to friends and loved ones, harassment at home and work, and even violence. With this legislation, a stalker in New York State can be charged with a felony conviction carrying a prison sentence of up to seven years and if convicted, would be prohibited from holding or obtaining a gun license. Additionally, this legislation makes it a crime for anyone to injure or attempt to injure a person, or destroy property, in an effort to interfere with or intimidate a person practicing his or her religion, or attempting to access reproductive health services.

"The passage of this legislation by the Senate underscores the leadership of Governor Pataki and represents a cooperative effort between the Governor, the Senate and the Assembly. On behalf of all New Yorkers, I applaud the State Legislature and Governor Pataki for championing this important new law."