The Signing of the Grieving Families Act Would Be A Holiday Blessing for NY Families

New York State’s wrongful death law dates back to the 19th century—a time illustrated by the Dickensian Classics and an era that did not place much value on human life --only the wages connected to it. If Tiny Tim were to have died, his life wouldn’t have been worth a shilling when the law was first adopted, and astoundingly would not provide Bob Cratchit any relief today.

 Bah Humbug!

 The Grieving Families Act would help bring New York State’s wrongful death statute into the modern era and on par with the rest of the nation and in line with our values. It would provide families who have lost a child or loved one the ability to seek appropriate damages in cases where wrongful death is established.

 The loss of a child is every parent’s worst nightmare.  No mother or father is seeking a financial judgment for the death of their child. What they want is fairness, and for the extreme anguish and loss they have suffered to be calculated in New York’s Courts of Law. 

 The Grieving Families Act is an exceptional bill, one that has transcended party lines, and passed in both houses of the State Legislature for a second consecutive year and with overwhelming bipartisan support. The broad support this legislation has garnered is a rarity in today's contentious and hyper-partisan State Legislature and speaks volumes to the importance of this bill for families from every corner of the state.

 For most New Yorkers, the Holiday Season is a time of joy, and happiness.  Yet, for the countless families throughout this state who have lost a son or daughter, the holidays can be a time of immense sadness.

 Governor Hochul, my plea to you, is to give New York’s grieving families a blessing this holiday season. Sign the Grieving Families Act into law and unshackle our Courts from archaic callousness. With the stroke of your pen, you will bring humanity, empathy and compassion to our Courts and provide hope to families across the state.

Anthony H. Palumbo

NYS Senator, 1st District