Provides that it shall be a defense to any prosecution for a violation of a bus lane restriction pursuant to a bus rapid transit program when an employee of the metropolitan transportation authority is performing authorized duties on behalf of such authority and is operating an authorized employer motor vehicle in the bus lane at the time of the violation and conducting lawful business or providing service to an official metropolitan transportation authority vehicle or personnel while in a bus lane.
Impact
If enacted, this bill would directly impact the enforcement of bus lane restrictions, providing a legal safeguard for MTA employees acting under the authority of their position. The amendment could reduce instances of penalization for MTA personnel who are performing essential services but might inadvertently be in violation of existing traffic laws while operating in bus lanes. This change is expected to enable smoother operations and enhance the effectiveness of public transportation in urban areas.
Summary
Bill A08292 aims to amend the Vehicle and Traffic Law to establish an affirmative defense for individuals accused of violating bus lane restrictions in New York City. Specifically, it dictates that if a Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) employee is operating an authorized vehicle for the purpose of conducting authorized duties in a bus lane, such individuals can defend against prosecution for any lane violations under bus rapid transit programs. This legislation is designed to facilitate the efficient operation of the MTA and its services during the execution of its responsibilities.
Contention
Debate around Bill A08292 may center on concerns regarding traffic flow and public safety. Supporters of the bill argue that it will streamline operations for the MTA, allowing employees to perform their duties without fear of legal repercussions for necessary actions. However, opponents might express worries that such a defense could be misapplied or misused, potentially leading to congestion in bus lanes where other vehicles may still violate the restrictions. Critics could also raise concerns about the accountability mechanisms in place to ensure that this amendment is not exploited by individuals not acting in their official capacity.
Same As
Provides that it shall be a defense to any prosecution for a violation of a bus lane restriction pursuant to a bus rapid transit program when an employee of the metropolitan transportation authority is performing authorized duties on behalf of such authority and is operating an authorized employer motor vehicle in the bus lane at the time of the violation and conducting lawful business or providing service to an official metropolitan transportation authority vehicle or personnel while in a bus lane.
Authorizes and directs the metropolitan transportation authority to implement a free fare program on the Long Island Rail Road for firefighters employed by the city of New York.
Authorizes and directs the metropolitan transportation authority to implement a free fare program on the Long Island Rail Road for firefighters employed by the city of New York.
Directs the metropolitan transit authority to establish and implement a no fare pilot program for transportation on all authority buses, excluding express buses, for all individuals.
Authorizes and directs the metropolitan transportation authority to implement a fare refund program for canceled or delayed Long Island Rail Road trains.
Authorizes passing school busses on public highways when the highway has at least six lanes and is divided by a median or permanent barrier and the school bus is traveling in the opposite direction of the passing vehicle.
Authorizes the commissioner of motor vehicles to impose higher civil penalties upon motor carriers who fail to report to the commissioner of motor vehicles certain disqualifying violations by bus drivers employed by such carrier.
Authorizes the Triborough bridge and tunnel authority to impose tolls and fees for congestion pricing for motorcycles in the central business district in the amount of half of the charges for the tolls and fees of other vehicles.
Authorizes the Triborough bridge and tunnel authority to impose tolls and fees for congestion pricing for motorcycles in the central business district in the amount of half of the charges for the tolls and fees of other vehicles.
Authorizes the Seagate police department receive a special parking placard for the department's motor vehicles when such officers are on official business as peace officers.