New Law Prohibits Flyers To Be Placed On Any Part Of Motor Vehicles

Brooklyn- State Senator Martin J. Golden (R-C-I, 22nd District) today is announcing that Governor George E. Pataki has signed into law legislation that prohibits the attachment of handbills and other forms of advertisements to any part of a motor vehicle in New York City. Golden, the sponsor of this legislation, was instrumental in passing legislation in 2003 banning the placement of such flyers on car windshields and on rearview mirrors.

Senator Golden stated, "I applaud Governor Pataki for signing this important piece of legislation into law, legislation that will go a long way in ensuring that New York City residents are allowed to enjoy a high standard of living and a greater quality of life. In 2003, I worked with my colleagues and the Governor to adopt legislation that prohibited the placement of ads, flyers and handbills on windshield wipers or on rear view mirrors, but it was necessary that this year, we increased the parameters and the limitations because of unscrupulous individuals."

Golden continued, "Advertisement companies and businesses are getting around the law by putting these flyers on mirrors and car antennas using rubber bands, or placing folded handbills under the door handles or in the outer door jams. These new locations that have been discovered as prime advertisement locations are generating a significant amount of litter on the streets of New York City and causing our streets to be dirty. There are better and more effective ways to advertise and I challenge business to find them and to obey the laws."

The law will go into effect on November 28, 2005 and both New York City Police Department and New York City Sanitation Department officers can issue summonses to those found in violation. Individuals who discover handbills on their cars are encouraged to call 3-1-1 or the local precinct to report the incident.