Governor Hochul Signs Law to Reduce NYC Speed Limit to 20 MPH

Photo byKevin LeeonUnsplash

The speed limit in New York City might soon be reduced to 20 mph.

Sammy's Law, which gives New York City the ability to reduce the citywide speed limit from 25 mph, was signed into law by Governor Kathy Hochul on Thursday.

To help manage traffic, the maximum speed limit may be lowered to 15 mph in specified "slow zones" if the New York City Council approves the change.

Hochul declared during the bill signing that, "New York City will be able to take back its streets. What that means, we're taking back the streets, making them safer for people, slowing down drivers and saving lives."

Mayor Eric Adams supports the ordinance, but any speed limit changes need to be approved by the City Council.

Adams stated, "Years ago, when I was a state senator, we started a campaign of decreasing the speed limit with some of the advocates then, and little did we know that the people who stand behind us, Families for Safe Streets, they stated that we're going to turn our pain into purpose."

Before any changes, a 60-day comment period must be held.