Bill > S06614

This bill amends the vehicle and traffic law to establish stricter penalties for failing to yield to authorized emergency vehicles. Specifically, the bill introduces a graduated penalty system for violations: for a first conviction within ten years, an individual can be fined up to $300 or imprisoned for up to 30 days, or both; for a second violation within ten years, the penalties increase to a maximum fine of $600 or imprisonment for up to 90 days, or both; and for a third or subsequent violation within ten years, the penalties escalate to a maximum fine of $900 or imprisonment for up to 180 days, or both. The bill classifies these violations as misdemeanors, which means they are considered more serious than infractions but less serious than felonies. The goal of these increased penalties is likely to encourage drivers to take more seriously the need to yield to emergency vehicles, which can be critical in life-or-death situations where emergency responders need clear and quick passage. The act is set to take effect immediately upon becoming law.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6614