Bill > S04678

This bill increases driver safety training requirements for D, M, and MJ license applicants and directs the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to conduct a comprehensive study on the operation and safety of various vehicles. For motorcycle (M) and junior motorcycle (MJ) license applicants, the bill now requires proof of at least 10-15 hours of supervised motorcycle operation and completion of specific safety courses like the New York Safety Council's defensive driving course or the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's basic rider course. The bill also mandates that the DMV commissioner conduct a detailed study analyzing ownership, usage, traffic law violations, and crash trends involving standard motorcycles, heavy motorcycles, mopeds, electric bikes, and electric and non-electric scooters. Within six months of the law's effective date, the commissioner must provide a report to the governor and legislative leaders that includes potential recommendations for enhanced safety education, age restrictions, and safety gear requirements. The bill, known as "Elijah's law," aims to improve road safety by increasing training requirements and gathering comprehensive data on vehicle operation across different modes of transportation.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4678