New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S00716

Introduced
1/8/25  
Refer
1/8/25  

Caption

Relates to the passing of stopped school buses on divided highways; provides that vehicles traveling in the opposite direction of a school bus on such highway shall not have to stop if a physical barrier is present between the different directions of travel.

Summary

Bill S00716 amends the vehicle and traffic law in New York concerning the passing of stopped school buses on divided highways with four or more lanes. Specifically, it allows drivers traveling in the opposite direction of a stopped school bus on such highways, where a physical barrier exists, to proceed without stopping. This change aims to clarify the rules for drivers on divided highways, enhancing traffic flow while maintaining safety for school children.

Impact

The bill modifies existing traffic laws to exempt drivers on divided highways from stopping for school buses when a physical barrier is present. This could lead to changes in traffic patterns and enforcement practices on these roads, potentially reducing delays for drivers while still aiming to protect student safety. The amendment may also necessitate updates to driver education programs and public awareness campaigns regarding school bus safety.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S00716 appears to be mixed. Supporters argue that the bill will improve traffic efficiency on divided highways, while opponents express concerns about the safety implications for children boarding and disembarking from school buses. The lack of recent votes or committee discussions indicates that the bill's reception may still be under consideration among legislators.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between traffic efficiency and student safety. Proponents of the bill, including some transportation advocates, argue that the physical barrier provides sufficient safety for children, while critics, including some parents and safety advocates, worry that allowing vehicles to pass could endanger children who may not be visible to drivers. This debate highlights differing priorities regarding road safety and traffic management.

Companion Bills

NY A09179

Same As Relates to the passing of stopped school buses on divided highways; provides that vehicles traveling in the opposite direction of a school bus on such highway shall not have to stop if a physical barrier is present between the different directions of travel.

Previously Filed As

NY A09179

Relates to the passing of stopped school buses on divided highways; provides that vehicles traveling in the opposite direction of a school bus on such highway shall not have to stop if a physical barrier is present between the different directions of travel.

NY HB409

Passing a stopped school bus; divided highways, access roads, and certain driveways.

NY A05519

Permits passing a school bus on a public highway with six or more lanes when traveling the opposite direction of the stopped school bus while separated from such school bus by a median or permanent barrier.

NY HB409

An Act to amend and reenact ยง 46.2-859 of the Code of Virginia, relating to passing a stopped school bus; divided highways, access roads, and certain driveways.

NY A2686

Prohibits school buses from traveling in left lane of roadway except for turning and emergencies.

NY AB409

Passing certain vehicles stopped on or near a highway and providing a penalty.

NY SB409

Passing certain vehicles stopped on or near a highway and providing a penalty.

NY HB530

Overtaking a stopped school bus; increase penalty for violations of.

NY A08317

Requires all vehicles move over or slow down for parked, stopped and standing vehicles on highways, requiring the inclusion of at least one question regarding such requirement on the state driver's license examination, and requires public education measures on such requirement.

NY HB1308

relative to increasing the penalty for passing a stopped school bus.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.