New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A03492

Introduced
1/28/25  
Refer
1/28/25  

Caption

Increases the penalties for overtaking and passing a school bus; provides that for the first conviction a person shall be punished by a fine of not less than $350 nor more than $500; provides that for a second conviction a person shall be punished by a fine of not less than $500 nor more than $800; also provides that for a third conviction a person shall be punished by a fine of not less than $800 nor more than $1000.

Summary

Bill A03492 amends the vehicle and traffic law in New York to increase penalties for passing a school bus with its red lights illuminated. The bill establishes a tiered penalty system for violations, with fines increasing for repeat offenses. Specifically, the first offense incurs a fine of $350 to $500, the second offense within three years incurs a fine of $500 to $800, and the third or subsequent offenses incur fines ranging from $800 to $1,500. The bill aims to enhance the safety of school children by discouraging dangerous driving behavior around school buses.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would modify existing traffic laws, specifically section 1174 of the vehicle and traffic law, by increasing the financial penalties associated with passing a stopped school bus. This change is expected to lead to stricter enforcement of traffic laws related to school bus safety and may result in fewer incidents of drivers illegally passing school buses, thereby improving the safety of students during pick-up and drop-off times.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A03492 appears to be supportive, as it addresses a critical safety issue concerning children and school buses. Discussions in committee and among legislators have emphasized the importance of protecting students and ensuring compliance with traffic laws. However, there may be concerns regarding the fairness of increased penalties and their impact on drivers.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from the increased financial burden on drivers who violate these laws, particularly in economically disadvantaged areas. Some legislators may argue that the penalties are too harsh, while others contend that they are necessary to ensure compliance and protect children's safety. The balance between public safety and fair enforcement of penalties is likely to be a key discussion point.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY A02515

Increases the penalties for overtaking and passing a school bus; provides that for the first conviction a person shall be punished by a fine of not less than $350 nor more than $500; provides that for a second conviction a person shall be punished by a fine of not less than $500 nor more than $800; also provides that for a third conviction a person shall be punished by a fine of not less than $800 nor more than $1000.

NY A07950

Provides that the penalty for the abandonment of animals is a misdemeanor, punishable by imprisonment for not more than one year, or by a fine of not less than five hundred dollars nor more than one thousand dollars, or by both.

NY A00862

Prohibits the taking of zoo, petting zoo, carnival or circus animals; provides that violations shall be punishable by a fine of not less than five hundred dollars nor more than two thousand dollars.

NY S3042

Bans street takeovers and violators would be guilty of a felony and punishable by imprisonment for more than one year and be subject to a fine of not less than one thousand dollars ($1,000) nor more than five thousand dollars ($5,000).

NY S01741

Provides that the penalty for the abandonment of animals is a misdemeanor, punishable by imprisonment for not more than one year, or by a fine of not less than five hundred dollars nor more than one thousand dollars, or by both.

NY A11276

Increases the penalty of knowingly violating the provisions relating to the appropriate shelter for dogs from a violation to a misdemeanor, punishable by imprisonment for not more than one year, or by a fine not less than five hundred dollars nor more than one thousand dollars, or by both.

NY S2397

Increases penalties for a second or subsequent offense with a fine of not less than $500 or no more than $2,500 and up to 2 years imprisonment, for violating the law on the care of dogs.

NY H7487

Increases penalties for a second or subsequent offense with a fine of not less than $500 or no more than $2,500 and up to 2 years imprisonment, for violating the law on the care of dogs.

NY S2482

Provides that records of convictions for carjacking and promoting prostitution of child shall not be expunged.

NY A05792

Increases the monetary penalties for the crimes of aggravated harassment in the first or second degrees or for discrimination; provides that such penalty shall be not less than five hundred dollars nor more than twenty-five hundred dollars for the first violation and not less than twenty-five hundred dollars nor more than twelve thousand five hundred dollars for each subsequent violation.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.