Bill > S05400

This bill amends the New York navigation law to create a specific exemption for law enforcement and fire department vessels responding to emergencies on navigable waters. The bill allows operators of such vessels to temporarily disregard certain state and local navigation laws and regulations during emergency operations, provided they meet specific safety requirements. These requirements include sounding audible signals (such as bells, horns, sirens, or whistles) and displaying at least one blue or red light visible from 500 feet in any direction. However, the bill importantly stipulates that while these vessels can deviate from standard navigation rules, their operators are still legally obligated to operate with due regard for the safety of all persons and can be held accountable for reckless behavior. The exemption is designed to give emergency responders more flexibility to quickly and effectively respond to urgent situations on waterways while maintaining a fundamental standard of responsible operation.

Business and Industry, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5400