Bill > S00629

This bill amends the New York penal law to add a new provision specifically addressing assault in the third degree against transportation workers and passengers. Under the proposed change, a person would be guilty of assault in the third degree if they cause physical injury to an operator, driver, or passenger on public transportation vehicles such as buses, taxicabs, aerial tramways, subways, or other motor vehicles used for transporting people for hire. The bill also explicitly covers school bus drivers, station agents, and ticket agents. The key requirement is that the perpetrator knows or should reasonably know that the victim is either performing their professional duties (in the case of an operator, driver, or agent) or is a passenger. By creating this specific provision, the bill aims to provide additional legal protection for transportation workers and passengers, potentially serving as a deterrent against acts of violence in public transportation settings. The amendment would take effect immediately upon enactment.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S629