Time is running out as Assembly lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are trying to push through limo safety reform.
The Assembly on Tuesday approved a number of bills addressing the industry, more than eight months after 20 people were killed in the Schoharie Limo Crash. Legislators say now is time to take action before another tragedy occurs.
This vote comes in the final hours of session, and after the state Senate passed a nine bill package a few weeks ago.
The Assembly passed what’s being called the “Impound Bill.” It will give the Department of Transportation the authority to pull stretch limos off the road and impound it if it fails safety inspections. The owner would then have 30 days to fix those problems, and if they don't, the limo would become abandoned property.
Lawmakers say this is probably the most important bill for regulating the limo industry and it would not punish the businesses that operate safely.
Families of the victims pleaded for change the past several months. Lawmakers, including Assemblyman Chris Tague, say their voices are being heard. Tague represents the area where the crash occurred.
"It still breaks my heart to think about what happened that day, it's terrible. At the end of the day it will take some of the pain away and give people some closure so they can move on with their lives," says Tague.
Another bill passed Tuesday will create a database that's accessible to the public. It'll have information regarding any serious violations limo company faced, and if they are up to date with inspections.
Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara introduced the bill after speaking with many of the victim's families.
"Out of this comes change; out of this comes legislation that can make things,” said Santabarbara. “That can prevent things from happening again in the future. I think that's very meaningful to all the families that are affected.”
There's still a number of bills regarding limousines that are expected to be brought up for votes before the end of session.
Lawmakers say this is just the start. They are hoping to create a task force made up of experts, including DOT and DMV, to help with regulating the limo industry moving forward.