"The next bill before me is Intro 343-A, sponsored by Council Members Vallone, Clarke, Fidler, Foster, Gennaro, Gentile, Gerson, Nelson, Reed, Rivera, Sanders, Sears, Weprin, Liu, Palma, Katz, Seabrook and Public Advocate, Betsy Gotbaum.

"Intro Number 343 would enact a city law requiring motorists to properly yield the right of way to an emergency vehicle. This bill will help deter irresponsible conduct by drivers who ignore emergency vehicles and can hinder the lifesaving efforts of police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians. This bill doubles the penalties currently in effect under state law. Fines will start at $300 for a first offense, and rise to $900 for a third offense.

"Ignoring emergency vehicles while driving is against the law and irresponsible, but most importantly, in emergency situations where seconds can cost lives, not yielding to an emergency vehicle can be the difference between life and death.

"I would like to thank the Police Department  and the City Council for their work on this bill."