These are the actual regulations, passed while the public was unware: http://www.nyc.gov/html/film/downloads/pdf/moftb_permit_regs.pdf
Basically, it's about insurance and being responsible for your actions. BTW plenty of people were aware of this, it was posted in the NYTIMES for the last 2 months, that i know of.
I don't know what New yorkers will do but I know if this was France, every damn person and their mother would be out in the street taking photos and videos just to ensure their freedom to take photos was kept intact. and they'd still be taking photos if the law was put in place until a change was put in place. they would simply overwelm cops trying to squash the backlash. The world may be collectively heading down the same slippery slope, but at least some aren't going down without a huge fight. and maybe, those with the fighting spirit will make the future better. I am losing faith in the USA a lot, but I have a lot of respect for the French, they seem to be a little less naive and more capable of fighting bullshit in unique ways. Live in New York? got a camera? Don't leave home with out it. Fight for what you've worked hard for. freedom. sadly, to many people are to sedated it seems.