Bill > S01054

This bill amends the New York vehicle and traffic law to explicitly prohibit the use of head-mounted portable electronic devices while driving, expanding existing restrictions on electronic device use. The bill introduces a new definition for "head-mounted" devices, specifically mentioning technologies like Google Glass, which are described as wearable devices that sit on the head, ears, and nose like eyeglasses. The legislation broadens the existing definition of "portable electronic device" to include head-mounted devices and modifies the definition of "using" such devices to encompass wearing them while operating a motor vehicle. The bill creates a legal presumption that holding or wearing a portable electronic device in a conspicuous manner while driving means the device is being used, with a rebuttable presumption that allows drivers to provide evidence to the contrary. The new restrictions apply to both personal and commercial motor vehicles, with some exceptions for when vehicles are fully stopped in a legal parking location. The act will take effect 30 days after becoming law, giving drivers and law enforcement time to understand and implement the new regulations.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1054