In a united effort to address the dangers of drug-impaired driving, Assemblyman Andrew Molitor (R,C-Westfield) joined lawmakers from both parties, law enforcement officers, and safety advocates at a press conference today. The event highlighted the alarming rise in drug-related crashes and the urgent need for legislative action to strengthen enforcement, improve roadside testing and educate the public.

“Drugged driving is a growing threat that endangers lives every day,” said Molitor. “We need a multi-pronged approach—giving law enforcement better tools, increasing awareness, and ensuring tougher consequences for offenders. Protecting New Yorkers on our roads must be a priority. Protecting New Yorkers on our roads must be a priority. Drug driving fatalities are entirely preventable; we are 1 of only 4 states that requires law enforcement to specify the type of drug that causes impairment.”

During the press conference, law enforcement representatives discussed the increasing frequency of drug-impaired driving incidents and the difficulty of detecting offenders due to gaps in current testing capabilities. One such representative was Sheriff James Quattrone, President of the New York State’s Sheriff Association, who spoke on behalf of police across the state who deal with these issues day in and day out. Victims’ families and safety advocates also spoke, sharing personal experiences that underscored the human cost of impaired driving.

Molitor is backing bipartisan legislation that would expand drug detection training for police officers, introduce new roadside testing technology and enhance penalties for those who repeatedly drive under the influence of drugs. “Let’s fix this now to protect our families, friends, and communities,” said Molitor.