Relates to prohibiting the use of certain products which obscure license plates

BILL NUMBER:S3451

Title of bill

An act to amend the vehicle and traffic law, in relation to prohibiting the use of certain products which obscure license plates

Purpose: Prevents drivers from obscuring license plates with the inten- tion of inhibiting the ability of technology to capture an image of such license plate.

Summary of Provisions: Section 1 amends the vehicle and traffic law by adding a new section 396a that reads: No motor vehicle license plate shall in any way be covered or obscured through the use of any product, device, or substance which prevents such license plate from being photo- graphed or has the effect of inhibiting the ability of any technology to capture the image of such license plate. Section 1 also establishes a violation as a traffic infraction punishable by a fine of not less than $100.

Justification: A new market has emerged to obscure images by traffic/red light cameras used by municipalities to identify lawbreak- ers. These products include sprays and transparent license plate covers. A reflective glare is produced along the license plate frame in response to the flash from the traffic camera, preventing the technology from capturing the image of the license plate. The entire purpose of these products is to aid drivers in evading detection during traffic violations. Additionally, as some bridges, tunnels, and other tolled roadways shift to EZPASS or license plate identification tolling, this technology could be used to assist toll evaders.

Prior Legislative History: This is a new bill.

Effective Date: This act shall take effect on the thirtieth day after it shall have become law.