6/22/06-A bill that would have forbidden drivers from watching videos while behind the wheel has died.
State law already prohibits drivers from watching any video monitoring device that is located in front of the back of the driver’s seat – regardless of whether the device interferes with safe driving.
Sponsored by Sen. Carl Marcellino, R-Syosset, A6447 remained in the Assembly Transportation Committee when the session ended, effectively killing it for the year.
The bill would have amended 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.
It would have provided an exception if the equipment is disabled while the vehicle is in motion. It would also have exempted global positioning and navigational display systems.
An identical Senate bill – S1310 – also died.

3/27/06-A bill in the Assembly Transportation Committee would forbid drivers from watching videos while behind the wheel.
State law already prohibits drivers from watching any video monitoring device that is located in front of the back of the driver’s seat – regardless of whether the device interferes with safe driving.
Sponsored by Sen. Carl Marcellino, R-Syosset, A6447 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 if the equipment is disabled while the vehicle is in motion. It would also exempt global positioning and navigational display systems.
For bill status, call (518) 455-7545. In New York, call 1-800-342-9860.
An identical Senate bill – S1310 – is in the Senate Transportation Committee.