Bill > S07856

This bill amends the insurance law to require that motor vehicle accident prevention courses, such as the National Safety Council's defensive driving course, include new components of instruction focusing on "Portable Electronic Device" awareness and "Cannabis Use" awareness, in addition to existing components like "Road Rage" and "Work Zone Safety" awareness. The bill mandates that insurance companies provide an actuarially appropriate premium reduction for drivers who successfully complete these courses, which must be monitored by the Department of Motor Vehicles. To qualify for the premium reduction, the course must provide actual classroom instruction for a minimum number of hours determined by the department, and the reduction will apply for a three-year period. The bill aims to enhance driver education by incorporating awareness of potential distractions and impairments that can lead to accidents, such as the use of electronic devices while driving and the effects of cannabis consumption. The amendments will take effect immediately, with specific provisions for the expiration and reversion of the insurance law subsection.

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https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S7856