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Assembly passes bill narrowing public access to Article 81 guardianship records
Summary
The Assembly approved legislation that limits public access to Article 81 guardianship records to involved parties unless a court orders otherwise, with sponsors saying the measure protects vulnerable people from identity theft and financial exploitation.
The New York State Assembly on the floor approved Assembly Bill 6804, which restricts routine public access to Article 81 guardianship records so that only parties to those cases may view them unless a court orders otherwise.
Sponsor Miss Griffin urged members to support the bill, saying current practice leaves “highly sensitive personal and financial information” in guardianship files publicly available and that limitation is necessary to reduce exploitation. “This legislation limits access to these Article 81 guardianship records to only involved parties unless a court orders otherwise,” Griffin said, adding that the change “ensures privacy, promotes dignity, and enhances security for those who need it most.”
Miss Bailey, who said the measure had been a top priority of county clerks while she served in that association, echoed support. “It protects some of our most vulnerable,” she said, thanking colleagues for advancing the legislation.
The bill’s final section was read on the Assembly floor and the clerk recorded the vote. The Assembly announced the result: Ayes 135, Nays 0. The bill will take effect as specified in the bill text.
Background and context: sponsors said the change aligns guardianship records with privacy protections used in other sensitive proceedings and responds to county clerks’ concerns about identity theft and financial exploitation of seniors and others under guardianship. The measure also directs clearer standards for safeguarding records where feasible.
Next steps: With the Assembly’s vote recorded in favor, the bill proceeds according to legislative process and any effective date stated in the bill text.
