Legislation passed by the City Council officially became law over the weekend after Mayor Eric Adams declined to sign or veto it after 30 days.
ABC7 New York 24/7 Eyewitness News Stream Jaywalking -- that time-honored practice of crossing the street outside of the crosswalk or against the traffic light -- is now legal in New York City.
"Let's be real, every New Yorker jaywalks. People are simply trying to get where they need to go," she said in an emailed statement. "Laws that penalize common behaviors for everyday movement shouldn't exist, especially when they unfairly impact communities of color." Liz Garcia, an Adams spokesperson, declined to elaborate on the mayor's decision to let the bill become law without his action.
Other cities and states, from Denver and Kansas City, Missouri, to California, Nevada and Virginia have decriminalized jaywalking in recent years, according to America Walks, a Seattle-based group that's been tracking the proposals. The term "jaywalking" dates to the early 20th century and has its roots in Midwestern slang for a country bumpkin or rube, according to dictionary maker Merriam-Webster.
The Legal Aid Society, meanwhile, called the legislation long overdue. The non-profit organization, which provides free legal representation to New Yorkers that cannot afford a lawyer, said police for decades have used the violation as a pretext to stop, question and frisk residents - especially those of color.
Legislation Law New York City Law New York City Jaywalking Crosswalk Traffic Street Crossing Roadway Mayor Adams Bill Passed Legal 15486519
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
‘I’m walking here!’: Jaywalking legalized in New York CityJaywalking is now legal in New York City.
Read more »
‘I’m walking here!’: Jaywalking legalized in New York CityJaywalking is now legal in New York City.
Read more »
‘I’m walking here!’: Jaywalking legalized in New York CityJaywalking is now legal in New York City.
Read more »
Former New York Gov. David Paterson attacked in New York CityPolitical News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government
Read more »
'New York Nico' highlights hidden gems of New York with new guidebookIn a new guidebook, Nicolas Heller, known as 'New York Nico,' captures what locals have always known: it's not just the skyline that makes New York special, it's the stories behind every storefront and the characters on every corner.
Read more »
80-degree temps possible for Halloween in New York York City area; near record highs likelyParts of the New York City area will be near 80 degrees on the afternoon of Halloween.
Read more »