S4649A

The New York State Senate passed legislation sponsored by Sen. Cooney to increase penalties for drivers who fail to comply with "move over" laws, with a vote of 59-0. The bill, S4649A, aims to protect highway workers, police officers, and tow-truck drivers by strengthening enforcement of existing move-over requirements. Sen. Cooney cited multiple fatal incidents in 2024, including the deaths of highway workers Robert Bornt, Stephen Ebling, and Vincent Giammarva, and referenced a 2021 survey indicating that nearly 40 percent of drivers ignore move-over laws. "We have to send a message that this stops now," Cooney said, arguing that stronger penalties are necessary to make clear that moving over is "not a choice, it is our responsibility as New York drivers." Sen. Oberacker, a cosponsor, praised the bill as addressing safety concerns in rural areas. The legislation takes effect January 1, 2026.