A new law signed Tuesday by Governor Kathy Hochul is designed to protect New Yorkers from reckless or dangerous driving. Angelica’s Law decreases the number of prior license suspensions needed to qualify for aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the first degree, a felony. The law is named for Angelica Nappi, who lost her life after being killed by a driver with multiple prior suspensions.
“Public safety is my top priority, and I’m committed to doing everything possible to keep New Yorkers safe,” Governor Hochul said. “After Angelica Nappi tragically lost her life more than a decade ago, her family have channeled their pain into purpose to push for this legislation. I’m honored to stand with Angelica’s family as we sign this law and make our roads safer for all.”
Angelica Nappi of Holbrook was just 14 in 2008 when she was struck and killed by a driver who did not have a valid license and who had more than five previous driver’s license suspensions. Angelica’s Law will help to keep drivers with prior suspensions off of the road by applying a felony to recidivist drivers who operate vehicles without a valid license after having committed five or more moving violations resulting in prior suspensions or revocations.
Angelica’s Mom, Dawn Riendeau, said, “Almost 16 years later, my fight for safer roadways has been acted upon. I know Angelica is proud.”
