New York Observes Stalking Awareness Month with Legislative Action and Public Initiatives
New York State remains the only state in the nation with a Cabinet-level executive agency dedicated to gender-based violence prevention.
Governor Kathy Hochul has declared January as Stalking Awareness Month and January 18 as Stalking Awareness Day of Action in New York State. To mark the occasion, state landmarks will be illuminated in yellow on January 18 in recognition of individuals affected by stalking and gender-based violence.
The initiative follows Governor Hochul’s recent signing of legislation (A09616/S09174) aimed at providing additional protections for domestic violence survivors. The new law restricts abusers’ access to vehicle tracking technology, an effort to prevent technology-facilitated stalking and harassment. The Governor emphasized her commitment to supporting survivors and strengthening public safety through legislative measures.
“Inspired by my mother’s advocacy, I remain dedicated to enacting laws that protect individuals affected by abuse,” Hochul said. “From new laws safeguarding victims of domestic violence to raising awareness about the dangers of technology-facilitated stalking, we are taking action to make New York a safer place.”
As part of the awareness campaign, the New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence (OPDV) is launching a social media initiative focused on technology-facilitated stalking, including the use of tracking devices, social media monitoring, and online harassment. OPDV’s campaign will provide information on stalking prevention and resources for survivors through its Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and LinkedIn platforms.
The announcement aligns with Governor Hochul’s broader public safety agenda, which includes expanding protections for domestic violence victims. Last year, she signed legislation strengthening access to orders of protection and broadening legal avenues for family and household members affected by domestic violence. One such measure, known as Melanie’s Law, was enacted in memory of Melanie Chianese, who was killed by her mother’s ex-boyfriend. The law aims to protect victims’ loved ones, who are often targeted by abusers seeking control.
New York State remains the only state in the nation with a Cabinet-level executive agency dedicated to gender-based violence prevention. The state's Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline operates 24/7, offering support through call, text, and chat services.
Individuals seeking assistance can contact the hotline at 800-942-6906 (call), 844-997-2121 (text), or visit opdv.ny.gov (chat).