The New York State Assembly concluded its 2023 session without voting on ‘Sammy’s Law,’ a significant bill that would grant New York City autonomy in setting its own speed limits, bypassing the need for approval from Albany.

Progress Stalled in Assembly

Despite gaining substantial support in the State Senate, ‘Sammy’s Law’ failed to reach a vote in the New York State Assembly during the previous legislative session.

Potential Speed Limit Reduction

New York City stands on the brink of potentially reducing its driving speed limit from 25 to 20 mph through ‘Sammy’s Law.’ The legislation, named after a 12-year-old boy tragically killed by a speeding driver in Brooklyn, could see implementation as early as this year.

Governor’s Assurance

Governor Kathy Hochul has announced plans to include a version of ‘Sammy’s Law’ in the upcoming New York State budget. This move would grant New York City the authority to independently establish speed limits across its five boroughs without Albany’s approval.

Advocacy for Lower Speed Limits

The push for lower speed limits stems from alarming statistics provided by Families for Safe Streets. According to their data, car accidents have claimed the lives of 110 children aged 17 and younger. Additionally, the bill cites a 2011 AAA study indicating that reducing speed from 25 mph to 20 mph could significantly decrease the likelihood of severe injuries or fatalities among pedestrians.

Legislative Hurdles

Despite the potential benefits of a lower speed limit, some Assembly members have expressed concerns over potential voter backlash. However, Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal (D-Manhattan), the bill’s sponsor, remains confident in its eventual passage.

Following a National Trend

If enacted, New York City would join other major metropolitan areas like Washington, D.C., Seattle, Minneapolis, and St. Paul in adopting a 20 mph speed limit, aligning with a growing national trend towards safer urban driving environments.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Safety

The fate of ‘Sammy’s Law’ hangs in the balance as it awaits deliberation and passage in the New York State Assembly. With its potential to save lives and enhance pedestrian safety, advocates continue to push for its adoption, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing safety on city streets.

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