Assemblyman Scott Gray, R-Watertown, is pictured during a visit to the State University at Potsdam.

A state lawmaker wants the state Transportation Department to inspect minivans used in for-hire transportation more than once a year.

Assemblyman Scott Gray, R-Watertown, recently introduced legislation (A.9133) that would establish the Minivan Passenger Safety and DOT Inspection Act. The legislation is necessary, he said, because of the high usage of minivans in commercial transportation service and the lack of explicit inspection requirements.

Gray’s bill would remove minivans from the statutory definition of “sedans” and would apply to passenger vehicles with seating for between seven and 10 passengers.

The state Transportation Commissioner would be given authority to establish inspection standards, penalties and to coordinate with state and local officials.

“Minivans are widely used for commercial services across New York state,” Gray wrote in his legislative justification. “These vehicles often carry higher mileage and heavier passenger loads than privately owned sedans, yet current law does not explicitly require semi-annual Department of Transportation inspections for minivans in

commercial service. This regulatory gap creates an uneven playing field between vehicle classes and, more importantly, exposes passengers and the public to avoidable safety risks. By bringing minivans into the DOT inspection framework, the state will ensure consistent oversight across all passenger-for-hire vehicles, promoting both safety and consumer confidence.”

Legislation (A.7028/S.8497) was introduced earlier this year in the state Assembly by Gray and Sen. Dan Stec, R-Glens Falls, in the Senate calling for mandatory in-route safety inspections for motor coaches carrying 16 or more passengers. The legislation aims to enhance operational oversight, reduce accident risks and bolster public confidence in motor coach travel.

Gray and Stec are proposing rest area inspections at least once every 30 days to assess components such as seat belts, lighting systems, braking mechanisms, tires, emergency exits and equipment, and verify driver qualifications and adherence to mandated rest periods. Results would be sent to the state Transportation Department and an annual report published. Penalties could include fines, suspension of a motorcoach company’s operating authority or corrective action plans determined by the state transportation commissioner.

“The continuous crashes and tragic fatalities on our roads are devastating, especially when we know there are simple, proven measures that can prevent them,” said Gray. “Beyond reinforcing the importance of always wearing your seatbelt, we must ensure regular vehicle inspections, pre-trip safety briefings and in-route safety checks to protect passengers.”