3 Foot Defined Safe
Passing

Forty states and DC require drivers to give cyclists at least 3 feet when passing. Unfortunately, New York is not one of them! NY requires only a "safe distance" when passing a cyclist - a vague standard that leaves too much to interpretation and offers no protection for pedestrians at all.

Currently, Suffolk, Monroe & Ulster Counties have passed this life-saving legislation locally. Time to bring this legislation to our Dutchess County, and here’s how you can help.

Send this email to one of our county representatives.

Sign this petition and show your support for defined safe passing.

NYBC is trying to change that with a new bill: Defined Safe Passing S1665 (Harckham) | A1831 (Steck) modeled after New Jersy's "move over" law that would require motorists to allow at least three feet between vehicle and pedestrians, bicyclists, and wheelchair users when overtaking or passing statewide except New York City which will continue to require “safe distance.”

• Write to Assemblyman William B. Magnarelli, Chair of the NYS Assembly Transportation Committee, requesting that he allow a vote on the bill.

• Write to Assemblyman Phil Steck to thank him for sponsoring the bill again this year!

• Click on this link to Assembly Bill A01831 and see if your Assembly Member is already listed as a co-sponsor. If so, write and thank them! If not ask your Assembly Member to sign on. (Not sure who your Assembly Member is? Use this tool to find out)

• Click on this link to see if your State Senator is a co-sponsor in the 2025-2026 session. If so, write and thank them, if not, write to encourage them to co-sponsor!  You can use this coalition letter as a model. (Not sure who your NYS Senator is? Use this tool to find out).

• Be part of our network! Individuals and organizations who are interested in bicycle/pedestrian issues, disability rights, environmental sustainability, safety, seniors, and many others all have a stake in helping to pass this legislation! Reach out to at nybc@nybc.net to see how you can help.

• Support NYBC’s work by making a donation to NYBC's Advocacy efforts!