§ 1182-a. Multi-jurisdictional speed contests, races and similar
special events. 1. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the
contrary, the department of transportation may, by order, rule or
regulation, prohibit or regulate races, speed contests, exhibitions of
speed or other similar special events which are held on public highways
in more than one county. Participants in an approved race, contest, or
exhibition are exempted from compliance with any traffic laws otherwise
applicable thereto, but shall exercise reasonable care. Such rules and
regulations shall include, among other things, provision for adequate
insurance coverage; provision for approval by the municipalities
involved; provision for payment or reimbursement of all the costs and
expenses of the state which are incurred in connection with such an
event; provision for assumption of risk for damages or claims by the
organizer, sponsor, driver, rider or participant in such event;
provision for the closure of or restriction on public use and travel
upon highways or parts thereof for a certain period of time whenever the
state or local police determine such is necessary to protect the public
safety, security, or convenience. Prior to the scheduled date of a
proposed multi-jurisdictional race, speed contest, exhibition of speed
or other similar special event, the sponsor or organizer shall apply, in
writing, to the department of transportation for consideration of and
authorization to conduct such an event. Such application shall be
reviewed by the commissioner of transportation, the commissioner of
economic development and the superintendent of state police, or their
designees. Only if such persons unanimously agree that the proposed
event should take place, the department of transportation shall continue
the review process and shall establish such reasonable requirements as
are necessary to protect the public safety.

2. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, no
person or entity shall have the right to bring an action against the
state or municipality or any person employed by the state or
municipality who was acting within the scope of his authority for
damages resulting from or in connection with any such race, contest or
exhibition. In the event of any such claim being brought against any
such individual employed by the state, the provisions of section
seventeen of the public officers law shall apply.

3. The division of state police and the department of commerce are
hereby authorized to provide necessary support and assistance to the
department of transportation in connection with its power to prohibit or
regulate races, speed contests, exhibitions of speed or other similar
special events pursuant to this section.