(photo) Sen. Seminara applauds House passage of “street takeover” prevention legislation

For Immediate Release

Sen. Seminara applauds House passage of “street takeover” prevention legislation

Sen. Lisa Seminara today applauded the unanimous Apr. 17 passage of street takeover prevention legislation in the House of Representatives. The bill now awaits a vote in the State Senate.

“Last spring, more than 200 vehicles invaded Simsbury in a street takeover,” Sen. Seminara said. “In response, we passed a bipartisan law to investigate and deter organized groups who are unlawfully operating motor vehicles, motorcycles, and all-terrain vehicles on public roadways.  This year, we are seeking to build on that progress.  We must crack down even harder on this illegal activity and hold lawbreakers accountable.”

The new proposal enables towns to impound street takeover vehicles until all appropriate fines and related charges are paid, such as towing fees and overdue property taxes. The legislation also stiffens license suspensions and financial penalties for violations.

“I look forward  to voting ‘yes’ on this common sense legislation in the Senate,” Sen. Seminara said. “Street takeovers are intended to cause disorder and chaos.  They endanger the public and law enforcement  They also sap precious resources from our local and state taxpayers.  This issue must be dealt with on an ongoing basis, and I will continue to drive the discussion in a collaborative manner on how to make our streets and communities safer.”