Governor Kathy Hochul announced that significant changes to New York’s Discovery Laws will take effect on Thursday, August 7. The reforms, part of the FY26 Enacted Budget agreement, aim to support survivors of domestic violence and other serious crimes while ensuring fair and timely trials.
“The safety of New Yorkers is my number one priority and this week, reforms that will make our public safety laws stronger go into effect — changes that enable us to better support survivors and close the revolving door of our court system,” Governor Hochul said. “Our Discovery Laws — some of the strongest for defendants in the country — ensure that our justice system works for both victims and public safety officers, rebalancing the scales of justice in New York.”
The new amendments adjust procedures so courts consider prosecutors’ overall efforts rather than dismissing cases over minor errors. They also reduce what materials must be disclosed by prosecutors to focus on evidence relevant to charges, allow cases to proceed when prosecutors have acted in good faith but are waiting on some materials, require defense attorneys to address challenges early in proceedings, and strengthen protections for sensitive witness information.
New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James stated, “These changes give us the tools to better protect victims, hold offenders accountable, and keep cases moving without unnecessary delays. They strengthen public safety while ensuring fairness for everyone in our justice system.”
Bea Hanson, Director of the New York State Office of Victim Services said: “We know that many crimes, especially sexual and domestic violence, go unreported. But when victims and survivors choose to report what happened to police, they deserve their case to be handled thoroughly and fairly. The rights of victims and individuals accused of crimes are not mutually exclusive. I thank Governor Hochul for her tireless efforts to ensure that our state’s justice system works for all.”
Rossana Rosado, Commissioner at the Division of Criminal Justice Services added: “Governor Hochul recognizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to improving public safety. It takes all facets of a community and the criminal justice system working together to ensure that those who commit crimes are held accountable, the voices of victims and survivors are heard, and communities disproportionately affected by crime have opportunities, programs, and support to help make them whole.”
District Attorneys from across New York expressed support for these measures. Mary Pat Donnelly from Rensselaer County said: “New York State’s prosecutors are thankful for the efforts of Governor Hochul and our legislative leaders for prioritizing the thorough examination of our state’s discovery law. The commonsense amendments that are being enacted will help minimize technical dismissals and ensure that victims of crime receive the justice they deserve. These amendments will make our communities safer while also protecting the rights of those accused of crimes.”
Westchester County District Attorney Susan Cacace called it “a victory for all New Yorkers who believe in a criminal justice system that protects and supports victims,” commending collaboration among state officials.
Albany County District Attorney Lee C. Kindlon commented: “I applaud Governor Hochul for having the foresight to fight for these Discovery reforms that will promote public safety and close the loophole on cases being dismissed for minor, technical violations. I believe in pragmatic solutions to criminal justice issues, and these common-sense adjustments will protect crime victims while upholding defendants’ rights to swift and fair prosecution of cases.”
Columbia County District Attorney Chris Liberati-Conant noted: “I thank Governor Hochul for her support… These modest reforms help ensure a fair process for everyone… It’s a clear win for public safety in New York.”
State Senator Patricia Fahy highlighted financial backing provided as part of these changes: “Targeted changes…will strengthen accountability… By providing prosecutors and defenders with $135 million in support we’re reducing risk…while ensuring survivors …have their day in court…” Assemblymember John T. McDonald III RPh emphasized balancing due process with prosecutorial tools needed “to protect public safety.” Assemblymember Gabriella A. Romero affirmed continued commitment “to due process” within this year’s budget.
Local officials echoed praise; Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy called it “a smart necessary update,” while Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan thanked Governor Hochul “for again showing her steadfast commitment.”
Sheriff Craig Apple addressed concerns about procedural dismissals denying justice: “When entire cases are dismissed over minor procedural errors—not because evidence is lacking—we deny survivors …the justice …they deserve…” He welcomed restoration of judicial discretion.
Other advocates including Lindsey Crusan Muse from St Peter’s Health Partners recognized strengthened protections around sensitive information as crucial progress toward fairness.
As part of broader investments tied into this budget cycle by Governor Hochul’s administration—including $135 million allocated statewide specifically toward supporting compliance with discovery requirements—further funds were committed ($347 million) toward gun violence prevention programs as well as initiatives addressing hate crimes https://www.youtube.com/embed/od4jvgaz6H8 , increased law enforcement presence on subways , sexual assault response , domestic violence intervention , gender-based violence prevention ,and anti-trafficking work .
