QUEENS, N.Y. — A New York lawmaker wants to make it a felony to remove a condom during intercourse without the permission of a sexual partner, a practice known as “stealthing.”

Democratic Assemblyman Francisco Moya of Queens plans to introduce legislation that would make stealthing punishable by up to four years in prison.

“Stealthing is not a new concept, but with many brave women speaking out about their traumatizing experiences it is very apparent that this is a significant issue,” Moya told PIX11 News.

“In addition to creating a punishment for this crime, this legislation raises awareness about this traumatizing experience.”

Democrats in Wisconsin and California have also proposed criminalizing the act, which increases the partner’s risk of sexually transmitted infection and pregnancy without their permission.

“New York has led the way on so many of these issues, this is a troubling trend and something needs to be done about it,” said Moya.

While it could pose challenges for investigators and prosecutors trying to make a case, Moya says a law penalizing those who engage in stealthing is needed to discourage the behavior and protect women.

The measure has not been scheduled for a vote.