What Is Jaywalking? New York's Updated Rules Explained

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1 Nov 2024

Jaywalking refers to crossing streets illegally, often outside crosswalks or against traffic signals


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In New York, jaywalking has been illegal since 1958, but nearly everyone does it


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Starting February 2025, New Yorkers can legally cross streets outside crosswalks without facing fines


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The new law allows jaywalking but specifies pedestrians outside crosswalks lack the right of way


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Councilmember Mercedes Narcisse sponsored the bill, aiming for fairer, non-discriminatory public safety policies


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The law change addresses racial disparities, as 92% of jaywalking tickets targeted Black and Latino residents


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Police officers welcome the law, preferring to focus on pressing public safety rather than jaywalking


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Mayor Eric Adams did not sign or veto the bill, allowing it to become law


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Residents view the change positively, noting that jaywalking is common in New York's busy streets


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The Legal Aid Society hopes the change will reduce pretextual stops and searches in the city


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