Provides that possession of a condom or other reproductive or sexual health device may not be received in evidence in any trial, hearing or proceeding as evidence of conduct which would constitute an offense defined in article 230 of the penal law.

New York Assembly Bill A00178, introduced on January 8, 2025, aims to prevent the use of condoms or other reproductive or sexual health devices as evidence in legal proceedings related to offenses under Article 230 of the Penal Law, which pertains to prostitution and related crimes. The bill seeks to ensure that possessing such items cannot be used to infer involvement in these offenses.

Supporters of the bill argue that it promotes public health by encouraging the use of condoms without fear of legal repercussions. They believe that decriminalizing the possession of condoms in this context will reduce the spread of sexually transmitted infections and protect individuals from unjust prosecution.

Critics contend that the bill could hinder law enforcement efforts to combat prostitution and related crimes. They argue that removing condoms as evidence may make it more challenging to prosecute such offenses and could inadvertently provide protection to those engaged in illegal activities.