Bill > A08217

This bill proposes to modify the legal definition of "drug" in the New York vehicle and traffic law by expanding the existing definition to include any substance or combination of substances that impair, even to a minimal degree, a person's physical or mental abilities. Currently, the definition of "drug" was limited to substances listed in the public health law and specific forms of cannabis. The new language would broaden the definition to potentially encompass a wide range of substances that could affect an individual's cognitive or physical performance, which could have significant implications for traffic safety and law enforcement. By including this expansive language, the bill appears to give law enforcement and legal authorities more latitude in defining what constitutes an impairing substance in the context of vehicle operation. The bill is set to take effect on the first of November following its passage into law, which would allow time for legal interpretation and implementation of the new, broader definition.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8217