Establishes the crime of harassment of an employee by an incarcerated individual; makes such crime a class B misdemeanor.

New York Senate Bill S04890 proposes to create a new crime called 'harassment of an employee by an incarcerated individual.' This offense would occur when an inmate intentionally harasses, annoys, threatens, or alarms a facility employee, parole board member, mental health office staff, probation department staff, or police officer. If convicted, the inmate would face a class B misdemeanor charge.

Supporters of the bill argue that it would enhance the safety and well-being of correctional facility staff by providing a legal mechanism to address harassment from inmates. They believe this measure would deter inappropriate behavior and contribute to a more secure working environment.

Critics of the bill express concern that it could lead to an increase in the criminalization of inmate behavior, potentially exacerbating issues related to mass incarceration. They also worry that the bill might be used to penalize inmates for minor infractions, further straining the relationship between inmates and staff.