Bill > S01620

This bill adds a new section to New York's vehicle and traffic law that restricts the operation of sound-making devices in motor vehicles. Specifically, the legislation prohibits drivers or passengers from playing audio devices so loudly that the sound is either audible from 25 feet or more away from the vehicle or louder than necessary for convenient hearing in areas near churches, schools, hospitals, and public parks. The bill provides several key exceptions: law enforcement and emergency vehicles can use communication devices necessary for their duties, vehicles used for business or political purposes can use sound-making devices in the normal course of their operations, and vehicle horns or warning devices are not restricted. Violations are classified as an unclassified misdemeanor with escalating fines: $40 for the first offense, $100 for the second and third offenses, and $200 with possible vehicle confiscation for subsequent offenses. The department is also required to establish rules defining terms like "plainly audible" and create standards for how law enforcement should measure sound levels. The law would take effect immediately upon passage.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1620