New York Assembly Bill A08867

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/9/25
• Refer: 6/9/25

Caption

Enacts the "New York state vehicle security circumvention device act" to prohibit the manufacturing, sale, offering to sell, or possession of devices outside of lawful and reasonable purposes.

Impact

The proposed act would amend existing vehicle and traffic laws in New York to reflect contemporary challenges posed by criminals. By establishing strict penalties for violations related to the unauthorized use of these security circumvention devices, the bill aims to empower law enforcement agencies with better tools to combat auto theft. This aligns with broader legislative efforts to modernize laws addressing various forms of technological crime, as current statutes may not adequately address the sophistication of new methods employed by car thieves.

Summary

Bill A08867, titled the 'New York State Vehicle Security Circumvention Device Act', seeks to address the rising problem of vehicle theft through the regulation of specific electronic devices. In 2024, it was reported that over 850,000 vehicles were stolen, prompting lawmakers to take action against organized crime groups that utilize advanced technology to commit such thefts. The bill aims to deter the manufacture, sale, and possession of unauthorized motor vehicle key programming and relay attack devices, which have been increasingly exploited by thieves to unlawfully operate vehicles.

Contention

Some points of contention regarding A08867 may revolve around the potential implications for legitimate businesses and individuals using similar technologies for lawful purposes. The bill outlines particular exceptions for law enforcement officers and other authorized personnel, but debates might arise concerning the effectiveness of the distinction between legal and illegal usage. Critics might argue that the restrictions could inadvertently affect manufacturers and distributors who operate within the bounds of the law, emphasizing the need for careful implementation and clarification of ownership and usage rights concerning these devices.