© 2025
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

New Laws Take Affect With the New Year in New York

By Pat Bradley

http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wamc/local-wamc-998494.mp3

Albany, NY – For the past year, drivers in New York State have had to slow down and move to the opposite lane when passing a stopped emergency vehicle such as a police car or ambulance. On January first New York's "Move Over" law will include hazard vehicles like tow truck operators and highway maintenance crews. If a driver does not comply, fines up to 275 dollars and two points on their license could be assessed. Attorney and Lobbyist for the Empire State Towing and Recovery Association Peter O'Connell says two towers were killed and another had his legs severed this year.

On January first, New York State implements the School Bus Mandate Relief Act. It will allow a board of education to provide student transportation based on actual ridership. New York State School Boards Association Executive Director Tim Kremer.

Later in 2012, New York's "Dignity for All Students" Act will protect children from discrimination and harassment. Sometimes referred to as a bullying law, New York State School Boards Association Deputy Director of Policy Services Linda Bakst says the law is much broader.

Dignity for All Students Act is effective on July first. The School Bus Mandate Relief Act and the Expanded Move Over law are effective on January first.