BILL NUMBER: S3153
SPONSOR: COONEY
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the vehicle and traffic law, in relation to authorizing
the commissioner of motor vehicles to establish a pilot program to eval-
uate the use of optional mobile or digital alternatives to driver's
licenses and non-driver identification cards if specified requirements
are met; and to provide for the repeal of such provisions upon expira-
tion thereof
 
PURPOSE:
To amend the vehicles and traffic law, in relation to authorizing
commissioner of motor vehicles to establish a pilot program to evaluate
the use of optional mobile or digital alternatives to driver's license
and nondriver identification cards if specified requirements are met.
 
SUMMARY:
Section 1. Amends the vehicle and traffic law by adding a new section
504-a. Section 2. Sets the effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
Electronic devices have become the default method of storing and sharing
personal information. From proof of vaccination, stock purchases, and
bank statements, to personal insurance information, New Yorkers utilize
their personal electronic devices as a digital wallet. The utility of
its leather counterpart has clearly declined.
Most people never leave home without their smartphone and with this
measure, they will never be without their driver's license or identifi-
cation. Many New Yorkers have been penalized for honest mistakes such as
losing their license or not updating their license with their most
recent information. Moreover, with a digital license, everyone will be
able to easily make any necessary updates to their information and help
to ensure that minor errors do not result in fees and other conse-
quences.
While privacy concerns exist for digital licenses, there exist risks for
physical licenses as well. In this era of innovation, we are confident
that a secure system will be established to protect the identity of all
New Yorkers, as this program is currently in place in other states. This
bill will also create cost savings for the state as it will cut down on
bureaucracy, and reduce the need to reissue physical documents.
 
RACIAL JUSTICE IMPACT:
TBD.
 
GENDER JUSTICE IMPACT:
TBD.
 
FISCAL IMPACT:
TBD.
 
LEGISLATIVE HI TORY:
2021-22: A8160; referred to transportation.
2023-24: S.8208
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately and shall expire and be deemed
repealed January 1, 2030.