Establishes a visor card for the deaf and hard of hearing

BILL NUMBER:S8117

Title of bill

An act to amend the vehicle and traffic law, in relation to establishing visor communication cards for the deaf and hard of hearing

Purpose

This bill will create distinctive visor communication cards for deaf and hard of hearing individuals in New York State.

Summary of specific provisions

Section 1 amends the vehicle and traffic law by adding a new section 404-x establishing a visor communication card for the New York state deaf and hard of hearing. Such e card will he issued by the DMV and will detail appropriate procedures for assisting a deaf of hard of hearing driving during a traffic stop. A fee shall be assessed for obtaining this card.

Section 2 states that this act shall take effect in 180 days after being signed into law.

Justification

Distinctive visor communication cards for the deaf and hard of hearing will allow for the easy identification of such drivers while traveling on roadways across the state. Visor communication cards will grant emergency personnel and law enforcement officers the ability to identify hard of hearing or deaf individuals when approaching such vehicles. It is important that law enforcement officers and emergency personnel are aware that such motorists may not hear verbal commands, nor respond as anticipated. Visor communication cards will allow for a person involved in a traffic stop or an accident to better communicate with law enforcement and emergency personnel.

Prior legislative history

New legislation.

Fiscal implications

EFFECTIVE DATE: This act shall take effect on the 180th day after becoming law; provided, however, that effective immediately, the addition, amendment and/or repeal of any rule or regulation necessary for the implementation of this act on its effective date are authorized and directed to be made and completed on or before such effective date.