(Watch) Sen. Hwang Supports Legislation to Combat “Street Takeovers”

For Immediate Release

Senator Hwang Applauds Passage of Bill
to Combat “Street Takeovers”, Racing and Illegal Roadway Activity

(Watch Sen. Hwang’s remarks.)

Sen. Tony Hwang, the Ranking Senator on the Transportation Committee, today applauded the Senate’s passage of S.B. 1036 establishing a law enforcement task force to combat “street takeovers” and illegal roadway traffic activity.

“We have seen these illegal and unacceptable ‘street takeovers’ on the Post Road multiple times,” said Sen. Hwang, who is co-sponsoring the bill.  “This is a critical public safety issue in Fairfield and throughout our state that must be addressed. The ‘takeovers’ have recently exploded into thrill-seeking, adrenaline-pumping, dangerous-driving activity. They put everyone at risk, and this legislation represents a balanced, thoughtful approach to solving the problem.”

The legislation’s passage comes after hundreds organized for street takeovers in Simsbury, Bristol, and, most recently, a violent takeover in Tolland. It aims to investigate and deter organized groups of people unlawfully operating motor vehicles, motorcycles, and all-terrain vehicles on public roadways.

The task force will include state law enforcement officers and police from surrounding jurisdictions for a collaborative enforcement approach.

The bill now moves to the House of Representatives and awaits further action.