January 9, 2020: Limo safety legislation

In the wake of a limousine crash in 2018 that claimed 20 lives, state lawmakers and Gov. Andrew Cuomo committed to adopting new safety measures for the industry, but failed to deliver on some of those proposals before the end of last year’s legislative session.

Sen. Tim Kennedy, chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, says the impasse has been resolved in the Legislature, with both houses now in agreement on a package of bills.

The deal – if approved by the governor – will require limousines to offer seatbelts, which passengers will be required to wear, imposes new licensing requirements and drug testing for drivers, and empowers the state to impound stretch limos that have a service defect. The legislation would also form a new task force to consider additional measures, such as escape hatches and anti-intrusion bars in limousines.