6/29/04-Senate lawmakers approved a measure earlier this month that would forbid drivers from watching videos while behind the wheel. It now heads to the Assembly for consideration.
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.
S6482, sponsored by Sen. Steve Saland, R-Poughkeepsie, would amend the law to prohibit satellite video entertainment broadcasts, VCR or DVD transmissions or replays, or any other similar video entertainment presentations located within the driver’s view.
“While it’s a great convenience for many people to have video players in their vehicles we need to be certain that drivers are not distracted,” Saland said in a written statement. “We have seen awareness increase about the danger of cell phone use while driving. Similarly, this legislation would make certain that the use of video players in cars is not done at the expense of safety.”
The bill would provide an exception for global positioning and navigational display systems. 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.

6/23/04-The Senate approved a measure June 7 that 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.
S6482, sponsored by Sen. Steve Saland, R-Poughkeepsie, would amend the law to prohibit satellite video entertainment broadcasts, VCR or DVD transmissions or replays, or any other similar video entertainment presentations located within the driver’s view.
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.
It has been forwarded to the Assembly Committee on Transportation.
For bill status, call (518) 455-7545. In New York, call 1-800-342-9860.