My district’s rural nature often causes motorists to encounter a variety of road hazards: deer darting across the highway, ice-coated surfaces – even the occasional traffic backups. Unfortunately, any one of these problems can lead to tragedy, especially if combined with driver negligence.
The Assembly minority has long been committed to making our communities safer and more secure for all of New York’s residents and visitors, and tremendous gains have been made in reducing violent crime. The Assembly minority conference has led the way in advocating and proposing legislation aimed at enhancing safety and security.
That’s why I’m proposing the Traffic Safety Act of 2006, legislation that would assist law enforcement in making our roads more secure. The measure deals with aggravated driving while intoxicated, vehicular manslaughter, excessive speed, unlawful use of a mobile infrared transmitter (MIRT) and the feasibility of developing MIRT-blocking technology. The traffic safety legislation is a part of the Assembly minority overall legislative package for 2006.
Some of the bill’s provisions would:
- Charge motorists who drive with a blood alcohol concentration of .18 or higher with a Class E felony.
- Establish a criminal penalty for negligent operation of a motor vehicle that endangers the public and causes another person’s death.
- Increase penalties for chronic and excessive speeders.
- Make it illegal for individuals, other than authorized emergency services and law enforcement personnel, to utilize a MIRT to change a traffic light. The bill also requires the state Department of Motor Vehicles, in conjunction with State Police, to determine the feasibility and reliability of technology that would recognize an unauthorized MIRT and block its signal.
It’s time the roadways of our state become safer for our families and friends. Together, we can make New York a safer place to drive.