Indianapolis, IN – March 4, 2025 – The National Police Association (NPA) endorses New York State Senate Bill S4774, introduced by Senator Christopher J. Ryan, and Assembly Bill A05953, introduced by Assemblymember Judy Griffin, for the 2025 legislative session. These bills aim to amend the penal law to include causing serious physical injury or death while operating a vehicle with a suspended, revoked, or no license as a class E felony under vehicular assault in the second degree and establish the crime of vehicular homicide. The memo can be read here.
Background: A Tragic Incident Spurs Legislative Action
In July 2020, a tragic incident in Wantagh, New York, claimed the life of 20-year-old Kyriakoula (Kyra) Gasparis. She was a passenger in a vehicle driven by an unlicensed individual who, despite the severity of the incident, received no jail time due to inadequate New York laws and judicial discretion. This profound injustice prompted Kyra’s mother, Rena Gasparis, to advocate for legislative change to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The Proposed Legislation: Closing Legal Gaps
In response to such incidents, Senator Christopher J. Ryan of the 50th Senate District introduced Senate Bill S4774, and Assemblymember Judy Griffin introduced Assembly Bill A05953. The bills seek to amend the penal law to include causing serious physical injury while operating a vehicle with a suspended, revoked, or no license as a class E felony under vehicular assault in the second degree. Additionally, they propose the creation of the crime of vehicular homicide, addressing cases where unlicensed driving results in fatality due to driver negligence.
The Need for Reform: Ensuring Accountability and Deterrence
The current legal framework in New York inadequately addresses the consequences of unlicensed individuals causing severe harm or death on the roads. Operating a vehicle without a valid license is not merely a minor infraction; it is a deliberate disregard for the law and public safety. When such negligence leads to catastrophic outcomes, the penalties must reflect the gravity of the offense.
The bills aim to rectify this gap by ensuring that individuals who choose to drive without a valid license and subsequently cause serious injury or death are held accountable through appropriate felony charges. This legislative change serves multiple purposes: it delivers justice to victims and their families, acts as a deterrent against unlicensed driving, and underscores the State’s commitment to road safety.
Introducing Vehicular Homicide: A Pivotal Aspect
The introduction of vehicular homicide as a distinct offense is a pivotal aspect of this bill. It acknowledges the severe consequences of unlicensed driving and ensures that perpetrators face commensurate repercussions. This provision not only brings justice to victims but also serves as a potent deterrent, signaling that New York State will not tolerate such reckless behavior.
NPA’s Position: Advocating for Stronger Penalties
The National Police Association strongly supports these legislative efforts. “By enacting this legislation, New York State will honor the memory of individuals like Kyriakoula Gasparis and take a definitive step toward preventing similar tragedies in the future,” said Sgt. Betsy Brantner Smith (Ret.), spokesperson for the NPA. “It is imperative that lawmakers prioritize the passage of this bill to reinforce the sanctity of life and the rule of law on New York roads.”
Call to Action: Urging Legislative Support
The NPA urges members of the New York State Legislature to support and expedite the passage of Senate Bill S4774 and Assembly Bill A05953. These bills are a necessary and compassionate response to a critical issue affecting New York’s communities. By enacting this legislation, the state will take a definitive step toward preventing similar tragedies in the future.
About the National Police Association
The National Police Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization focused on education and advocacy for law enforcement. For more information, visit NationalPolice.org.
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