Issues: Drunk Driving

The New York State Senate today passed legislation (S.7577-A), sponsored by Senator Patrick M. Gallivan (R-C-I, Elma), that would hold drunk drivers accountable for leaving the scene of an accident involving their vehicle without investigating it themselves and reporting it to law enforcement.  

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan (R,C,I – 59th District) introduced legislation (S.7577) Tuesday to make leaving the scene of a car accident while under the influence of drugs or alcohol a specific offense under New York State vehicle and traffic safety law. Current law merely holds that a driver must knowingly, or have cause to know, that they caused personal injury or property damage to be guilty of leaving the scene of an accident without reporting it.

The New York State Senate today passed legislation, to strengthen Leandra’s Law. The legislation would ensure that offenders comply with the provision of the law requiring them to use ignition interlocks.

Leandra’s Law was passed in 2009 following the tragic death of 11 year old Leandra Rosado, who was killed while riding in a car driven by her friend’s intoxicated mother. As part of Leandra’s Law, all convicted DWI offenders must install and use an ignition interlock in all vehicles they own or operate for a period of at least six months after their DWI conviction. Ignition interlocks are breath test devices linked to a vehicle’s ignition system which prevent the car from starting if alcohol is detected in the driver’s breath.

Below are legislative actions taken by the State Senate recently to protect our families:

Nothing fake about the dangers of synthetic marijuana: Believed harmless by many, ‘fake pot’ is a dangerous substance whose growing use is spreading through our communities. Herbs sprayed with toxic chemicals, these over-the-counter drugs have been responsible for a number of violent acts and can have devastating effects on a user’s health. To protect our families the Senate has passed S.6694, a bill that prohibits the sale and possession of these hazardous substances. With side-effects as bad or worse than a number of illegal drugs, it’s time that synthetic marijuana is removed from our stores.

The New York State Senate today passed legislation (S.4740C), sponsored by Senator Owen H.

Budget Comes Early, Controls Spending and Holds The Line On Taxes

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan hailed the 2012 state budget today as lawmakers approved the spending plan ahead of the April 1st deadline, marking the second consecutive year New York State will enact an on-time budget.

“Passing a second on-time budget in as many years is indicative of the larger progress we’ve seen lately in Albany. Just as late budgets were once a symbol of dysfunction, on-time budgets are symbolic of continued progress,” the Senator said. “Even more important than passing an on-time budget, is that we passed a fiscally responsible budget that respects New York’s taxpayers and keeps the State moving forward.”