New York Senate Approves Bill Limiting Use of Rap Lyrics as Evidence in Court

New York Senate passed a bill on Tuesday that adds new measures to using song lyrics as evidence in the courtroom. Senator Brad Hoylman and Jamaal Bailey sponsored the bill, backed by Jay Z, Meek Mill, Killer Mike, and Fat Joe.  

Pitchfork reports that Senate Bill S7527 would not be an “outright ban on prosecutors from using lyrics or other forms of ‘creative expression’ at trial.” It would require them to prove the lyrics result from “literal, rather figurative or fictional.”

The law comes just one week after Young Thug and Gunna were indicted on RICO charges. The bulk of the state’s evidence against the rappers comes from their music videos and lyrics. 

Before the bill becomes a law, it has to pass the New York State Assembly.