ALBANY, N.Y. -- State autoshops that conduct inspections must now measure window tint before approving vehicles for operation, according to a new state law signed Monday by Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

The law, sponsored by State Sen. John DeFrancisco (R-Syracuse), requires that autoshops now test whether vehicle windows let at least 70 percent of light into the vehicle. Existing state law already requires that, but autoshops until now did not have to measure window tint before approving inspections.

DeFrancisco said in a news release the measure is aimed at improving public and police officer safety.

He said windows that are too dark would need to have the tint reduced before passing an inspection.

"Dark tinted car windows can inhibit drivers from making necessary eye contact with pedestrians and other drivers," DeFrancisco said in the news release. "They also can place law enforcement officers in jeopardy when making traffic stops because they cannot see what activity is occurring inside the vehicle."

New York's Vehicle and Traffic Law does not allow motorists to have autos with a tinted windshield or front side windows that allow in less than 30 percent of light. This law also applies to the rear window unless the vehicle has outside rear-view mirrors on both sides.

It is also illegal to sell, offer for sale, or install glass that does not comply with this law, according to the state Department of Motor Vehicles.

The bill passed Monday was one of 134 that came to the Governor's desk last week. Of those bills, he vetoed 72 and passed 62.