According to this AM New York article, New York lawmakers last week passed legislation that would give police officers the power to charge suspects with misdemeanor forcible touching (also known as groping) on the subway and other public transportation. The bill now goes to the governor, who is expected to sign it.
That’s all great and good but this hasn’t been illegal all along?
Assemblywoman Aravella Simotas, of Queens, who sponsored the bill, said “The law must reflect that these crimes on public transportation are particularly egregious because riders are essentially captives of their attackers.”
The MTA, which has spearheaded a campaign on the issue of sexual misconduct on public transit, supports the legislation. The law is set to take effect on Nov. 1.