State Sen. Chu introduces law to curb reckless driving, prevent traffic deaths

October 1, 2024 Brooklyn Eagle Staff

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SUNSET PARK — NEW YORK STATE SEN. IWEN CHU INTRODUCED LEGISLATION MONDAY TITLED “EFRAIN’S LAW” (S9920) to strengthen penalties for reckless and unlicensed driving that results in death. Named in memory of 82-year-old Efrain Barreto, who was killed by an unlicensed moped driver in June, the legislation creates a felony offense for aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the first degree when an offender with a history of reckless driving kills someone.

The legislation builds on Chu’s prior work on e-bike safety and new regulations that require moped registration by 2025. The bill’s goal is to improve accountability and create safer streets by mandating stricter penalties for negligent drivers, according to a press statement from Chu’s office. Current laws generally charge such offenders with mere misdemeanors, leaving many victims and their families without a sense of justice.

Barreto’s daughter, Vivian, expressed her support for the bill, emphasizing the need to punish repeat scofflaws more effectively.

“After suffering severe brain injuries, my father passed away on June 6,” said Barreto. “To our shock the perpetrator was only charged with a misdemeanor for killing while driving with a suspended license. This is unacceptable.”

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