N.Y. State Senate Advances Bill Banning Leaving Children Under 8 Alone In Cars

ALBANY, N.Y. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- A proposed New York state law would make it illegal to leave a child younger than 8 alone in a vehicle.

The state Senate voted in favor of the bill on Monday. It now moves to the Assembly for consideration.

The bill's sponsor, state Sen. Jack Martins (R-Mineola), said cars should never be used as ``baby sitters'' and that leaving a young child in a car alone can lead to `tragedy'' when temperatures are too hot or cold.

First-time violations would be punished by a fine of up to $50. Second and third violations within 18 months would carry fines of up to $100 and $250, respectively.

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