S2422A

The New York State Senate passed Sammy's Law on a 55-7 vote, clearing the way for New York City to set its own speed limits. The legislation, sponsored by Sen. Hoylman-Sigal and designated as Calendar Number 271, is named after 12-year-old Samuel Cohen Eckstein, killed by a speeding driver in Brooklyn in 2013. Supporters cited statistics showing that pedestrians hit at 20 mph are significantly more likely to survive than those struck at 35 mph, and noted that 98 children have died in traffic collisions on city streets since Eckstein's death. The bill received backing from Mayor Eric Adams, Governor Kathy Hochul, and the New York City Council through a home-rule message. Sen. Kennedy, chair of the Transportation Committee, praised the advocacy of Families for Safe Streets and Amy Cohen, Sammy's mother, who has been instrumental in advancing the legislation. Seven senators voted against the measure: Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Lanza, O'Mara, Palumbo, Rhoads, Scarcella-Spanton, and Weik. The bill takes effect immediately upon becoming law.