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(New York, NY) – New York City pedestrians may soon be able to legally jaywalk, which some have already been doing for years. The City Council recently passed a bill to legalize jaywalking, but it still awaits approval from Mayor Eric Adams. While his office hasn’t confirmed if he plans to sign the bill, they encourage pedestrians to continue using crosswalks for safety.
The Legal Aid Society supports the move, arguing that jaywalking enforcement has disproportionately affected marginalized communities. They believe the policy has less to do with public safety and more with biased policing. Transportation Alternatives, a pedestrian safety group, also supports the change, calling jaywalking laws outdated and ineffective.
Despite the potential for legalization, some New Yorkers are staying careful. Some say that while it may be faster and convenient, it can also be more dangerous. The debate continues, but either way locals may soon have the legal right to cross streets outside of the designated crosswalks.
