NY Senate Passes Bill to Outlaw Leaving Children Alone in Cars

New legislation has won passage in the New York state Senate, that would make it illegal to leave children in a vehicle unattended. 

The bill will now move to the Assembly for consideration, after the senate voted in favor of the bill on Monday. The bill would outlaw leaving children under the age of 8 alone in a vehicle.

In a press release, state Sen. Jack Martins said:

Cars should not be used as babysitters.  Leaving a young child inside an unattended vehicle is irresponsible, dangerous, and in some circumstances can lead to tragedy in a matter of minutes.  Implementing these measures would create a new deterrent and reinforce the dangers of leaving young children alone in cars.  The Assembly should join the Senate in approving them

First-time violations would be punished with a fine up to $50. Second and third violations would carry a fines of up to $100, and $250. Fines would be in addition to any other penalties imposed by the courts.