LOCAL LAW NO. "M" FOR 2024
A LOCAL LAW OF THE COUNTY OF ALBANY, NEW YORK AMENDING CHAPTER 288 OF THE ALBANY COUNTY CODE REGARDING THE WELFARE AND SAFETY OF PETS IN VEHICLES
Introduced: 7/8/24
By Ward, Feeney, Plotsky, Beston, Cleary, Rosano, Ricard, Laurilliard, Lekakis, Burgdorf, Lockart, McLean Lane and Reidy:
A Local Law amending Chapter 288 of the Albany County Code to create penalties for driving with a pet positioned on the driver's lap, roaming freely in the driver's immediate area, obstructing the driver's view, interfering with vehicle control, or engaging in distracting behaviors for the driver.
BE IT ENACTED by the Albany County Legislature as follows:
Section 1. New Article Added.
This Local Law hereby amends Chapter 288 by adding a new Article V, titled Welfare and Safety of Pets in Vehicles.
Section 2. ? 288-26, Title.
This Local Law shall be known as the "PAWS Law: Pets in Automobiles - Welfare and Safety."
Section 3. ? 288-27, Legislative Purpose and Intent.
This Legislature recognizes the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of both drivers and their pets while traveling on our roadways. Pets can be a source of distraction for drivers, diverting their attention away from the road and increasing the likelihood of accidents.
The Legislature acknowledges that driving with a pet on one's lap or allowing a pet to roam freely in the driver's immediate area can significantly impair a driver's ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. This behavior increases the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities for both vehicle occupants, other road users, and pedestrians. Prohibiting pets from sitting on the driver helps minimize distractions and contributes to safer driving conditions.
The current penalties for distracted driving, while valuable in addressing various forms of driver distraction, do not adequately address the specific danger posed by driving with a pet on one's lap or in the driver's immediate area. The...
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