State Senate Passes “Angelica’s Law,” Targeting Unlicensed and Reckless Drivers

(Albany, NY) — Today, the New York State Senate passed “Angelica’s Law” sponsored by Senator Kevin Thomas (D-Nassau County) which would amend the vehicle and traffic law, in relation to first degree aggravated unlicensed operation (AUO) of a motor vehicle.

The dangers posed by unlicensed drivers to pedestrians and other motorists in New York State are well documented. New York State works hard to improve its traffic safety record, combining legislative action, enforcement, engineering, and public education. However, motor vehicle crashes impose a terrible personal toll upon individuals, families and communities, and remain a major public health problem.

Angelica Nappi was tragically killed by a driver in 2008 that was operating a vehicle with seven prior suspensions and released from prison after only four months. Since then, Angelica’s mother, Dawn Nappi, has tirelessly advocated for numerous changes to New York State law to prevent future harm for drivers, pedestrians and passengers. Today, after years of stalled movement, Angelica’s Law passed both the New York State Assembly and Senate for the first time since the legislation was introduced.

State Senator Kevin Thomas said, “With the passage of this bill, we are sending a clear message: dangerous drivers who repeatedly break the law will face severe consequences. I am grateful for Dawn Nappi’s advocacy on behalf of her daughter’s memory - and look forward to continuing fighting alongside her to make our roads safer. Numerous preventable deaths such as Angelica's have been caused by these drivers – and they must be taken off the road.”

Read previous news coverage on Angelica’s Law here: "Angelica's Law," designed to crack down on suspended license driving, nears passage in Albany (CBS News); 'It's in her honor.' LI mother who lost daughter to unlicensed driver continues fight for safer roads (News12) 

Read the full text of Angelica’s Law here.

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