Sen. Cicarella Supports Recent Legal Action Addressing Auto Theft and Reckless Driving, Pushes for Criminals to be Held Accountable

Cicarella: This Is a Step in the Right Direction, but More Must Be Done to Protect Public Safety

HARTFORD – State Senator Paul Cicarella (R-34) supported state leaders’ recent efforts to reduce opportunities for auto theft and reckless driving in Connecticut following Attorney General William Tong’s announcement of a multistate settlement with Hyundai and Kia in connection with elevated auto thefts and reckless driving in the state.

“This is an important step in the right direction for public safety and consumer protection,” said Sen. Cicarella. “While today’s announcement represents progress, it does not address the root of the motor vehicle thefts and reckless driving. The solution is greater enforcement to hold criminals accountable under the full extent of the law. I am committed to working this legislative session with my colleagues to strengthen our laws, support law enforcement, and ensure that individuals who steal vehicles and endanger motorists and pedestrians are held fully accountable. I commend the Attorney General, Commissioner Cafferelli, and Commissioner Higgins for taking another step to reduce opportunities for auto theft and reckless driving in Connecticut.”

Tong, who was joined by Department of Consumer Protection Commissioner Bryan Cafferelli and Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Commissioner Ronnell Higgins, today outlined the terms of the settlement, which requires Hyundai and Kia to install industry standard engine immobilizer anti-theft technology in all future vehicles sold in the United States, provide protective upgrades for certain existing vehicles, and offer restitution to impacted consumers. The action stems from a rise in auto thefts and dangerous driving incidents involving vehicles lacking modern anti-theft safeguards.