Senator Gallivan Sponsors Legislation to Require Driver's Education Courses Include Instruction on Traffic Stops

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan (R-C, Elma) is co-sponsoring legislation (S.2426) that would require driver's education and defensive driving classes to include information on proper procedures and behavior when stopped by a law enforcement officer as part of driving instruction courses.  The bill has bi-partisan support in the New York State Senate and is endorsed by the Police Conference of New York Inc. and the New York State Troopers PBA.

The legislation aims to mitigate potential danger during routine traffic stops and police interactions. 

"As a former New York State Trooper and Sheriff of Erie County, I conducted numerous traffic stops during my career," Senator Gallivan said.  "Unfortunately, there is always a potential for these interactions to become dangerous, often because of a misunderstanding or inappropriate behavior.  Fully educating drivers on what to expect and what to do during a traffic stop will make these interactions safer for all involved, drivers, passengers and law enforcement officers."

Given the nature of their profession, police officers are often on alert for potential threats, especially during traffic stops.  Instructing drivers on their responsibilities and what constitutes proper behavior would make traffic stops safer and more efficient.  

The legislation would mandate the creation of a curriculum by the commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles and would authorize the commissioner to work with the Division of State Police, civil liberties organizations, and others to assist in curriculum content.

The bill has been sent to the Senate’s Committee on Transportation, where Senator Gallivan is a member.

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