Saratoga Standard

Senator Jim Tedisco announced that Governor Kathy Hochul's new state budget proposal includes the "Child Survivor Privacy Act," which he sponsored. This initiative aims to enhance privacy protections for child crime victims.

"After working with the Sena family from my district last year to convince the Governor to implement my bipartisan legislation to install security cameras at Moreau Lake State Park and all 180 state parks and recreational facilities, I’m pleased the Governor has listened to our request once again to include our ‘Child Survivor Privacy Act’ in the budget to enact new child privacy protections for child crime victims," said Senator Jim Tedisco.

The budget outlines increased investment in Child Advocacy Centers, focusing on safeguarding child victims' identities during investigations and legal proceedings. The plan also ensures a dedicated advocate is present throughout these processes.

Tedisco, alongside Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara, had previously urged the Governor to incorporate their legislation, "The Child Survivor Privacy Act" (S.22), into the state budget. Their advocacy is supported by the Sena family, whose daughter was kidnapped at Moreau Lake State Park in 2023 and faced challenges during legal proceedings post-rescue.

Support for this legislative effort also comes from Mary Lyall of Ballston Spa, a recognized advocate for missing persons whose daughter disappeared in 1998.

Previously, Tedisco and Santabarbara advocated for security measures at state parks, leading to installations at Moreau Lake State Park and other locations. Cameras are being set up across more than 180 state parks and recreational facilities.

"I appreciate the Governor including this common sense, bipartisan public safety measure in her budget proposal," said Tedisco. He emphasized his focus on aiding missing persons' families throughout his career and highlighted support from Mary Lyall and others in seeking a special unit within New York State Police dedicated to cold cases.

"As we prepare to fully review the Governor’s complete budget, I’m hoping as part of her 30-day amendments or final negotiations she will also include funding for a dedicated Cold Case unit," added Senator Tedisco. He stressed these initiatives as essential steps toward protecting children and enhancing public safety.