Bill > A04658

This bill amends the New York navigation law to create a new provision that exempts operators of law enforcement and fire department vessels from certain navigational regulations while responding to emergencies on the state's navigable waters. Specifically, the bill allows these emergency vessel operators to disregard state laws, local ordinances, and regulations about vessel movement during emergency operations, but only under specific conditions. These conditions include sounding audible emergency signals (such as sirens, horns, or electronic devices) and displaying at least one blue or red light visible from 500 feet in any direction. Importantly, the bill emphasizes that this exemption does not absolve emergency vessel operators from the fundamental responsibility to operate their vessels safely and with regard for the lives of others. Operators can still be held accountable for reckless disregard of safety, ensuring that the expanded operational flexibility does not come at the expense of public safety. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4658