Albany, NY – Assemblymember Gabriella A. Romero (D, WFP–Albany, Guilderland, New Scotland) today announced that her legislation (A.1138) to create stronger protections for judges and their families passed unanimously in the Assembly. The Senate version has also been passed. This bill aims to strengthen and improve New York’s Judicial Security Act, enacted in 2024, addressing several implementation issues identified by courts, county clerks, and judicial officials.

The bill includes three main provisions to improve security. First, A.1138 will expand existing privacy protections to cover domestic partners and adult children of judges. Current law only covers judges’ spouses and children under the age of 18. Second, it would designate the Chief Administrative Judge as the employer of state judges which clarifies procedures for safeguarding information. It also allows the Chief Administrative Judge to implement rules to protect the disclosure of personal information.

Additionally, it assists County Clerks with finding records by requiring judges to disclose what records they are aware of that contain personal information and creates a clear process for the voluntary release of protected information when a Judge elects to do so. By closing gaps in current law, this legislation will help protect judges and their families from harassment, intimidation, and potential threats, allowing them to carry out their duties with greater safety and security.

“In order to have a well-functioning judicial system, judges must be able to carry out their responsibilities without fear that they or their loved ones will become targets because of their service,” said Assemblymember Gabriella Romero. “This legislation closes important gaps in the Judicial Security Act and strengthens protections for judges and their families at a time when threats against members of the judiciary have increased across the country. Protecting judicial independence begins with protecting the personal safety and privacy of those who serve on the bench.”