6/22/04-A bill before the Assembly Committee on Transportation would forbid drivers from watching videos while behind the wheel.
Current state law already prohibits drivers from watching any device that receives a television broadcast if it’s located in front of the back of the driver’s seat – regardless of whether the device interferes with safe driving.
A9963, sponsored by Assemblyman Clarence Norman Jr., D-Brooklyn, would amend the law to prohibit satellite video entertainment broadcasts, VCR or DVD transmissions or replays, or any other similar video entertainment presentations located at any point forward of the back of the driver’s seat.
The bill would provide an exception for dashboard readouts or other displays of information about a vehicle’s operation or conduct. The provision would require the equipment to be disabled while the vehicle is in motion.
For bill status, call (518) 455-7545. In New York, call 1-800-342-9860.