Bill > S05856

This bill modifies the New York Vehicle and Traffic Law to streamline the process of compelling chemical tests for drivers suspected of driving under the influence. Specifically, the bill removes previous language that required a motor vehicle accident resulting in death or serious injury to be present before a court could order a chemical test. Now, a court can compel a chemical test if a police officer has reasonable cause to believe that the driver has violated driving under the influence laws, has been placed under lawful arrest, and has refused to submit to a chemical test. The bill simplifies the requirements for obtaining a court order to require a chemical test, making it easier for law enforcement to test drivers suspected of driving while intoxicated. The changes apply to both adult drivers and drivers under the age of twenty-one, and include provisions for reporting refusals to submit to chemical tests to the appropriate authorities. The modifications aim to strengthen enforcement of drunk driving laws by providing a more straightforward legal mechanism to obtain evidence of intoxication when a driver refuses a test.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5856