New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A08980

Introduced
8/13/25  

Caption

Prohibits the operation of any motor vehicle equipped with a device which affects the operation of traffic-control signals; provides that the possession of such a device shall constitute a traffic infraction, use thereof is a class A misdemeanor, and use which results in personal injury or death shall constitute a class E felony.

Impact

The introduction of A08980 is anticipated to enhance public safety on roadways by limiting unauthorized manipulation of traffic signals, which can pose significant risks to all road users. By classifying the unauthorized use of such devices as a class A misdemeanor for manufacturing or distributing them and a class E felony in cases leading to personal injury or death, the bill enforces strict consequences for violations. This amendment underscores the state's commitment to uphold safe driving conditions and counteract reckless behavior related to traffic management.

Summary

Bill A08980 aims to amend the vehicle and traffic law in New York State by prohibiting the operation, sale, or possession of devices designed to affect traffic-control signals, commonly referred to as 'traffic-control signal preemption devices'. This legislation defines these devices as tools that can change signal indications, such as mobile infrared transmitters, and lays out specific restrictions on their use and ownership. Exceptions are made for authorized emergency vehicles and public transportation vehicles under official duties, ensuring that essential services can still operate effectively in emergencies.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding A08980 may arise around the enforcement of such regulations, as opponents may argue that the bill could lead to overreach in personal vehicle modifications. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding the implications for public transportation and emergency response protocols. Critics could emphasize the need for nuanced approaches that balance safety and operational effectiveness for services reliant on timely traffic signal control.

Legislative process

The bill has been introduced to the Assembly and is currently under consideration by the Committee on Transportation. Its amendments, if passed, will take effect 180 days post-enactment, indicating a structured timeline for implementation. This allows for adaptations in law enforcement strategies and public awareness campaigns regarding the new restrictions.

Companion Bills

NY S02403

Same As Prohibits the operation of any motor vehicle equipped with a device which affects the operation of traffic-control signals; provides that the possession of such a device shall constitute a traffic infraction, use thereof is a class A misdemeanor, and use which results in personal injury or death shall constitute a class E felony.

Previously Filed As

NY S01157

Prohibits the operation of any motor vehicle equipped with a device which affects the operation of traffic-control signals; provides that the possession of such a device shall constitute a traffic infraction, use thereof is a class A misdemeanor, and use which results in personal injury or death shall constitute a class E felony.

NY A08056

Prohibits the operation of any motor vehicle equipped with a device which affects the operation of traffic-control signals; provides that the possession of such a device shall constitute a traffic infraction, use thereof is a class A misdemeanor, and use which results in personal injury or death shall constitute a class E felony.

NY S09920

Provides that aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, by a person who has a history of reckless driving, which results in a death shall be a class E felony.

NY A04229

Establishes the class A-I felony of operating as a major firearms trafficker.

NY S06302

Establishes the class A-I felony of operating as a major firearms trafficker.

NY S07182

Increases the penalty of sex trafficking and sex trafficking of a child from a class B felony to a class A-II felony.

NY S04608

Provides that the fines for traffic infractions and traffic misdemeanors committed in a school traffic control zone are doubled; requires such zones to be marked by a traffic light or stop sign.

NY S04320

Requires persons against whom an order of protection is issued to wear an electronic monitoring device; prohibits the tampering with such a device and violation of such prohibition constitutes a class E felony.

NY A04545

Requires that in communities which include traffic-control devices outfitted with photo monitoring instruments, amber or yellow signal lights located on any traffic-control device in such community shall have uniform duration periods.

NY A01905

Authorizes the imposition of a fifty dollar fee on vehicles entering NYC which are registered in states which do not cooperate with New York in the enforcement of traffic infractions through the use of photo-monitoring devices or signal monitoring systems.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.