When Does PDA Become Illegal In New York

Public displays of affection, also known as PDA, can be wonderful to see. A couple in love, walking hand-in-hand, sharing a smooch or a peck on the cheek. Nice right? Well, not everyone thinks that is so great.

For every individual that appreciates the feeling of love in the air, others feel it can be taken too far. You can almost hear someone yell "get a room." So, what is too far? Are public displays of affection legal in New York State?

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According to the Law Firm of Andrew M. Stengel, you won't be cited or taken off to jail if your PDA is the innocent holding hands, hugging, or a brief kiss. You might find yourself in hot water if your public behavior can cross into actual sexual conduct, severe indecent exposure, or lewd acts.

New York State Senate defines public lewdness, in part, as an individual who intentionally exposes the private or intimate parts of his or her body in a lewd manner or commits any other lewd act in a public place.

woman in black jacket holding red umbrella during daytime — Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash

Local ordinances around the Empire State may have specific local codes regarding disorderly conduct or disturbing the peace if behavior becomes overly disruptive or graphic. As long as PDA does not involve explicit sexual actions or nudity, it does not violate any local or state laws in Albany, for example.

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