New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A09259

Introduced
11/21/25  
Refer
11/21/25  
Refer
1/7/26  
Report Pass
1/21/26  
Refer
1/21/26  
Report Pass
2/25/26  
Engrossed
3/4/26  
Refer
3/4/26  

Caption

Requires motor carriers that operate charter buses to have pre-trip safety briefings on the mandatory use of safety belts by passengers and fines for such violations.

Impact

By enforcing pre-trip safety briefings, A09259 will likely have a broad impact on how motor carriers operate and conduct safety protocols. The bill not only has implications for passenger safety but also alters the responsibilities of operators regarding compliance with safety regulations. With the inclusion of fines for violations concerning the use of safety belts, the bill is designed to enforce accountability among motor carriers, potentially leading to improved safety outcomes for passengers.

Summary

Bill A09259 aims to enhance the safety protocols for charter buses operated by motor carriers in New York State. Specifically, it mandates that these carriers conduct pre-trip safety briefings for passengers, focusing particularly on the mandatory use of safety belts in compliance with existing regulations. The bill seeks to establish a uniform standard for safety procedures, which is especially significant in the wake of increasing safety concerns related to passenger transport.

Contention

While the focus of A09259 is on improving safety, there may be contention regarding the implementation of these new requirements. Some stakeholders might argue that the regulations could impose additional financial burdens on charter bus operators, particularly smaller businesses that may struggle to meet new compliance requirements. Additionally, there may be debate over the effectiveness of the proposed regulations and whether they adequately address the root safety issues currently facing the charter bus industry.

Companion Bills

NY S08691

Same As Requires motor carriers that operate charter buses to have pre-trip safety briefings on the mandatory use of safety belts by passengers and fines for such violations.

Previously Filed As

NY S08691

Requires motor carriers that operate charter buses to have pre-trip safety briefings on the mandatory use of safety belts by passengers and fines for such violations.

NY S08659

Enacts the "motor carrier safety compliance requirement act"; requires companies contracting with motor carriers to verify compliance with safety regulations, maintain proper oversight, and ensure adherence to established safety practices.

NY S08660

Relates to enacting the "comprehensive passenger safety enhancement act" to enhance passenger safety in commercial passenger vehicles.

NY S08497

Enacts the "in-route safety inspection for motor coach vehicles act"; establishes a framework for mandatory in-route inspections for motor coach vehicles carrying 16 or more passengers to reduce the risk of accidents and enhance operational oversight.

NY HF2179

A bill for an act requiring the use of safety belts or safety harnesses by passengers of motor vehicles, and making penalties applicable.

NY HB30

Motor Carrier Safety Act Changes

NY S357

Requires certain motorbus operators to unload passengers at scheduled destinations.

NY SB1613

SCHOOL BUS-SEAT SAFETY BELTS

NY A1145

Requires passenger vehicles to undergo safety inspection for equipment and credentials that affect safe operation of vehicle.

NY S2611

Promoting passenger safety on motorcoaches

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.