ALBANY, N.Y. — Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced that all motor vehicles passengers, 16 and older, must wear a seat belt.
Cuomo signed the legislation back in August. The previous law only required passengers who were 16 or older to wear seat belts if seated in the front next to the driver.
"We've known for decades that seat belts save lives and with this measure we are further strengthening our laws and helping to prevent needless tragedies," the governor said.
The new law will take effect on Sunday.
In 1984, under Gov. Mario Cuomo, New York became the first state to pass a mandatory seat belt law.
"It was under my father's leadership that New York became the first state in the country to pass a seat belt law, and the nation followed his lead. Now we are building upon this legacy and helping to create a safer and stronger Empire State for all."