Governor Cuomo Signs Lulu and Leo's Law to Protect Children

Criminalizes Misrepresentation of Caregiver's Experiences and Qualifications to Help Ensure Children are in Safe Hands

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today signed Lulu and Leo's Law (A.11125-A/S.9070-A) to establish the crime of misrepresentation by, or on behalf of, a caregiver for children. The legislation was prompted by the murders of Lucia and Leo Krim by their nanny who included false information on her application to become their caregiver.

"No parent should fear harm to their children by the very people entrusted to protect them," Governor Cuomo said. "As the father of three daughters, I cannot imagine the horror and the heartbreak experienced by the Krim family and while nothing can erase that, I'm proud to sign this law that will help protect New York children and provide some peace of mind to their parents and loved ones."

"As a mother, I know how important it is to be able to trust individuals with caring for your children," said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul. "Caregivers are supposed to protect our children from harm, and no parent should have to experience any misrepresentation or mistrust by those who are tasked to keep them safe. This legislation will help to ensure that caregivers are honest about their background and assure parents that their children are in good hands."

"This important legislation closes a gap in the law by establishing a legal duty that representations on behalf of a caregiver for children in the home be accurate. Thanks go to Governor Cuomo, both houses of the legislature and the advocacy of Kevin and Marina Krim for protecting the safety of children with this new law," said Assemblyman Steven Otis who sponsored the bill in the Assembly.

Kevin Krim said, "Marina and I want to thank Governor Cuomo for signing Lulu & Leo's Law. We hired the woman who murdered our children based on a deliberate set of lies. Thanks to Governor Cuomo's support and the hard work of sponsors Assemblyman Otis, Senator Lanza and their co-sponsor, there is now a strong deterrent to that kind of deception. We're honored and grateful that Lulu and Leo's powerful legacy includes protecting vulnerable children, parents, guardians and caregivers."

Lulu and Leo's Law establishes the crime of an individual intentionally making a false written statement about themselves or another person while they are being considered for employment, or while under employment as a caregiver to a parent or guardian of a child or children, or the agent of a parent or guardian.