Assemblyman Brian Maher (R,C-Walden) commends Gov. Kathy Hochul’s decision to sign bill A.3938B into law. The “Alexander John Smullen Traffic Safety Memorial Law” is a bipartisan piece of legislation establishing a statewide program to publicly memorialize victims of fatal vehicle collisions. The bill is named in honor of Alexander John “AJ” Smullen, the 14-year-old son of Assemblyman and Army Col. Robert Smullen, who tragically passed away in March 2024 after being struck by a vehicle.

The new memorial sign program will allow families and loved ones to purchase roadside markers honoring individuals lost in fatal crashes—offering a meaningful way to preserve their memory while also raising public awareness about the deadly consequences of impaired, reckless and distracted driving.

Maher praised the bill as both a compassionate tribute and an important public-safety measure.

“Losing a child is every parent’s worst nightmare, and the Smullen family has endured a tragedy no family should ever have to face,” said Maher. “This bipartisan legislation not only honors AJ’s memory but also provides families across New York with a dignified and lasting way to remember their loved ones. These memorial signs will stand as reminders—not just of lives lost, but of the responsibility we all share to drive safely and protect one another.”

The legislation also recognizes the heartbreaking losses of Faith A. McFarland, Sean C. Bracken and countless others whose lives were cut short on New York’s roads. The bill’s justification cites alarming statewide statistics:

• Motor vehicle fatalities have increased 25.8% since 2019, reaching the highest levels in nearly a decade.
• In 2022, New York recorded 1,175 motor vehicle deaths, with pedestrians representing one-quarter of all fatalities.
• Speeding, impaired driving and drug-related crashes account for hundreds of deaths annually.

Maher noted that the memorial program serves a dual purpose: offering families comfort while promoting safer driving.

“These signs provide grieving families a measure of closure and remind drivers to slow down and make responsible choices,” said Maher. “Each life honored sends a powerful message that tragedy is preventable.”

Maher concluded by commending his colleagues on both sides of the aisle for moving this emotionally significant and impactful legislation forward.

“I am proud to support this legislation and stand with Assemblyman Smullen and every family who has endured such unimaginable loss,” Maher said. “This law ensures their loved ones are remembered while reinforcing our commitment to safer roads across New York.”