A new law is cracking down on sex crimes against children by expanding the definition of rape. 

Sen. James Skoufis (D) held a news conference today in Newburgh to announce the new felony of aggravated sex abuse in the third degree. 

He says his office helped write the law after a local father reported to him that the sex abuse his daughter suffered as a child was not considered a specific crime. 

“These acts are disgraceful and heinous, and they’re a heartbreaking reality for many of our neighbors and families," said Skoufis. "This necessary change to our penal code will give many victims their day in court, and I’m humbled that we were able to play a small part in getting this changed.”

Gov. Kathy Hochul signed the bill into law earlier this month.

More information on the law can be found HERE.