Bill > S03276

This bill modifies New York's highway law to expand the state's liability for damages caused by highway defects. Specifically, the bill removes previous language that limited the state's liability for highway defects to certain months of the year, instead creating a more comprehensive liability framework. The revised law now allows individuals to seek damages from the state for highway defects on state-maintained highways, but with an important condition: the state must have received actual or constructive notice of these defects. The bill maintains an existing exemption for bridges over which the state has no control. Within incorporated villages, the state remains liable for damages occurring on the portion of the roadway it has constructed or improved, with the specific area defined by the center line of the roadway as documented in transportation department plans. The bill takes effect immediately and will apply to any cause of action that occurs on or after its effective date, potentially making it easier for individuals to seek compensation for damages caused by highway defects.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S3276