New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A06805

Introduced
3/14/25  
Refer
3/14/25  

Caption

Authorizes the impoundment of any motor vehicle operated by a person who drives while ability is impaired or intoxicated; provides for the imposition of towing and storage fees; provides for the release of impounded vehicles upon compliance with certain conditions.

Summary

Bill A06805 seeks to amend the vehicle and traffic law in New York by authorizing the impoundment of motor vehicles operated by individuals arrested for driving while ability impaired or intoxicated. The bill outlines specific conditions under which these vehicles may be released, including a mandatory impoundment period of at least twelve hours post-arrest. Additionally, it stipulates that only individuals meeting certain criteria, such as possessing a valid driver's license and proof of ownership, can retrieve the impounded vehicles. The law enforcement agency is also permitted to charge reasonable fees for towing and storage of the vehicles.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly alter the handling of motor vehicle impoundments related to driving offenses in New York. It would create a standardized procedure for impounding vehicles, thereby enhancing law enforcement's ability to manage incidents of impaired driving. The introduction of towing and storage fees could also impact individuals financially, particularly those who may struggle to pay these fees, potentially leading to broader implications for vehicle ownership and mobility for low-income individuals.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding Bill A06805 appears to be cautious support, with discussions focusing on the necessity of stricter measures to deter impaired driving. However, there are concerns about the financial burden of towing and storage fees on individuals, which may lead to opposition from advocacy groups representing low-income drivers or those affected by impaired driving laws.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the financial implications of towing and storage fees, which some stakeholders argue could disproportionately affect low-income individuals. Additionally, there are discussions about the balance between public safety and the rights of individuals who may be penalized for circumstances beyond their control. Supporters of the bill emphasize the need for stricter penalties to deter impaired driving, while opponents raise concerns about the potential for overreach in law enforcement practices.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY A00833

Authorizes the impoundment of any motor vehicle operated by a person who drives while ability is impaired or intoxicated; provides for the imposition of towing and storage fees; provides for the release of impounded vehicles upon compliance with certain conditions.

NY A00832

Authorizes the impoundment of vehicles operated by intoxicated or impaired persons; authorizes the release of impounded vehicles to owners of such vehicles if certain criteria is met; authorizes a reasonable fee for towing and storage of such vehicles.

NY S01240

Authorizes the impoundment of vehicles operated by intoxicated or impaired persons; authorizes the release of impounded vehicles to owners of such vehicles if certain criteria is met; authorizes a reasonable fee for towing and storage of such vehicles.

NY A06802

Authorizes the impoundment of vehicles operated by intoxicated or impaired persons; authorizes the release of impounded vehicles to owners of such vehicles if certain criteria is met; authorizes a reasonable fee for towing and storage of such vehicles.

NY AB983

Vehicles: removal and impoundment.

NY SB1198

An act to amend Section 23109.2 of, to amend, repeal, and add Section 13200 of, and to add Section 23109.4 to, the Vehicle Code, relating to vehicles.

NY HB304

Motor vehicles; impoundment conditions and procedures, further provided; redemption procedures, further provided; issuance of local identification cards, restrictions provided

NY HB166

Motor vehicles; impoundment conditions and procedures, further provided; redemption procedures, further provided; issuance of local identification cards, restrictions provided

NY SB6

Impoundment of vehicles used in certain traffic offenses.

NY AB29

Impoundment of vehicles used in certain traffic offenses.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.