As a driver in New York State you'll soon likely have to give some extra thought and extra space when passing that bicyclist going your way. New legislation designed to make bicycling on state roads a safer passage has passed both the State Senate and Assembly and is expected to be signed by the Governor. The bill, introduced in Albany by State Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins, requires all motorists "to maintain a safe distance," or at last three feet when passing a bicyclist. It has been labeled "Merrill's Law," in honor of Hartsdale resident Merrill Cassell, who was killed on Route 119 last November when he was sideswiped by a Beeline bus. It had the robust support of the Bike Walk Alliance, along with Westchester Cycle Club and the NY Bicycle Coalition, and was sparked by a memorial for Merrill after the tragic accident: Click on the picture for video.