State Senator Joseph J. Crisco, Jr.
March 6, 2007
Crisco Seeks Education and Tougher Penalties to Reduce Teen Driving Deaths in Connecticut
Expressing concern about the dramatic rise teen driving deaths in Connecticut, Senator Joseph Crisco (D-Woodbridge) testified before the General Assembly's Transportation Committee in support of tougher penalties, improved driver education and other measures to help reduce the number of teenage driving fatalities.
"I support zero tolerance teen driving laws in Connecticut," said Senator Crisco. "It may be painful to lose a license or to have a higher fine, but the tragic loss of lives has been great, and we must do more to improve the safety on our roads for teen drivers."
Senator Crisco supports the legislation that calls for a one year license suspension for driving while drunk, a six month suspension for reckless driving or street racing, a substantial increase in fines, and 30 days suspensions for using a cell-phone, text messaging or violating a curfew or passenger restrictions.
Senator Crisco also urged the Transportation Committee to evaluate the tough new teen driving laws approved in Massachusetts last year. These laws include a 90 day license suspension for a speeding ticket.
"Massachusetts has experienced a big turn around because of their legislation that imposed stiff penalties, driving restrictions and education in regards to teenage driving. These measures should be considered in Connecticut," said Senator Crisco.
He also requested the committee to evaluate the possible use of governors that control the speed on all cars driven by teenagers. Another priority is the need to review Connecticut driver-training education programs, and re-education programs for teens who have violated the law.
"We need to review driving education courses in other states," said Senator Crisco. "I have parents telling me that driving courses do not really address safety, and perhaps we should look at driver education courses to see if there is a way we can enhance that and have an impact on teenage driving."
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