NY S03095

Expands definition of "bicycle" to include motor-assisted devices not registerable by New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, and adds food and groceries to types of items delivered by commercial bicycle operators.

Requires businesses using bicycles for commercial purposes to provide identification cards to operators containing operator name, identification number, photo, and business contact information; operators must carry cards while making deliveries.

Mandates businesses provide protective helmets meeting federal safety standards and require operators to wear them while making deliveries; businesses must provide retro-reflective jackets with business name and operator identification number visible from at least ten feet.

Requires bicycle operators to complete a bicycle safety course provided by the Department of Transportation prior to making deliveries.

Changes criminal penalties for business violations from fines of $100-$250 with possible imprisonment to fines of $100-$250 only; creates civil penalties of $100 for first violations and $250 for repeat violations within two years; creates affirmative defense for businesses contracting delivery services through other businesses rather than directly employing operators.