Bill > S04774

This bill amends the New York State Penal Law by creating a new criminal offense called vehicular homicide. Under the new provision, a person can be charged with vehicular homicide if they are operating a motor vehicle and intentionally engage in conduct that causes another person's death, while demonstrating what legal terminology describes as a "depraved indifference to human life." This means the driver's actions show an extreme disregard for human life that goes beyond ordinary negligence. The offense is classified as a class B felony, which typically carries significant potential prison time. While the bill's text does not elaborate on specific examples, the new law appears designed to provide prosecutors with a specific criminal charge for fatal incidents involving intentional, reckless driving behavior that results in someone's death. The law will take effect 180 days after it is signed, giving time for law enforcement and judicial systems to prepare for its implementation.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4774