State Laws And Let Grow Updates in New York

Criminal endangerment is defined as a “lack of reasonable diligence as to a child under 18” in New York. So, too, is knowingly acting in a manner likely to be injurious to the physical, mental or moral welfare of a child less than seventeen years old. Lack of supervision is not specifically enumerated. (See NY Penal Law § 260.10)

New York’s juvenile court/neglect definition includes both children “whose physical, mental or emotional condition has been impaired or is in imminent danger of becoming impaired as a result of the failure of his parent or other person legally responsible for his care to exercise a minimum degree of care,” or “who have been without proper supervision or guardianship. Family Court Act § 1012(f)). New York also has a policy against ever leaving a child in a car alone. Policy materials state that “a child of 12 might be fine alone for two hours in an afternoon. Yet, the same child may be incapable of responsibly caring for a 5-year-old for that same period of time.” (OCFS FAQ re: Supervision)

This webpage is not a legal document, and Let Grow does not take responsibility for the content. Be mindful that some localities have rules and guidelines even when the state does not. When in doubt, consult your local authorities to confirm the laws where you live. What’s more, laws change, as do judicial interpretations of them, and this webpage may not be updated immediately.