They can date but cant have sex until 17. The legal age of consent to sex in New York is 17.

Can a 21 year old date a 16 year old in NY?

“What if Im 21 or older?” In New York, it is against the law for someone age 21 or older to have sex with a minor who is under the age of 17, period. If the adult is over 18 and the minor is under 13, it is a Class B felony, punishable by 10 to 25 years in prison.

Can a 17 year old date a 20 year old in NY?

Yes, the age of consent in NY is 17. Therefore, both of you are of age to date. After he turns 21, he can legally drink, but other than that everything should remain the same.