Bill > A06986

This bill, known as "Brendon's law", comprehensively addresses motor vehicle speed contests, sideshows, and street takeovers by significantly expanding legal prohibitions and penalties. The legislation creates strict definitions of "participation" that go well beyond just driving, including activities like organizing, facilitating, promoting, wagering on, or even spectating within 200 feet of such events. For speed contests and races, the bill broadens the definition of participation to include actions like acting as a starter, positioning vehicles, or directing participants. Similarly, for sideshows and street takeovers, the law defines specific prohibited behaviors such as performing stunts like burnouts, power slides, and drifting, or blocking traffic for entertainment purposes. The penalties are substantial, with first-time offenders facing potential imprisonment up to 30 days and fines up to $600, and repeat offenders within ten years risking up to one year in jail and fines up to $1,000. Notably, the bill also allows for vehicle seizure and forfeiture, placing additional financial risk on participants and vehicle owners. The law applies to public highways, sidewalks, parking lots, and even private properties open to the public, providing comprehensive coverage to prevent these dangerous automotive events.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6986