Albany, NY – Today, New York State Assemblyman Ari Brown (R-Cedarhurst) stood alongside his colleague, Assemblyman Robert Smullen (R,C-Mohawk Valley and the Adirondacks), at the Million Dollar Staircase in the State Capitol to support the introduction of the Alexander John Smullen Traffic Safety Memorial Law (A.3938). Also in attendance was Smullen’s wife, Megan, whose strength and grace in the face of unimaginable loss was deeply moving.

The bill, named in honor of Assemblyman Smullen’s late son, Alexander John “AJ” Smullen, seeks to establish a traffic safety memorial sign program to commemorate victims of fatal vehicle collisions. AJ, just 14 years old, tragically lost his life on March 6, 2024, after being struck by a vehicle on Feb. 22, 2024. His memory now serves as a powerful call to action for increased awareness and responsibility on New York’s roadways.

“How could one not be brought to tears over this issue?” said Assemblyman Brown. “No parent should ever have to endure such a heartbreaking loss. Assemblyman Smullen and his wife, Megan, have taken their unimaginable grief and turned it into a mission to ensure no other family suffers the same fate. This legislation is not just about remembrance—it is about saving lives.”

The Alexander John Smullen Traffic Safety Memorial Law will allow families to honor loved ones lost in fatal vehicle collisions by purchasing memorial signs, while also raising public awareness about the devastating consequences of reckless, impaired and distracted driving.

Assemblyman Brown commended Assemblyman Smullen and his wife Megan for their strength and leadership, pledging full support for the bill as it moves forward in the legislative process.

“This is more than legislation—it’s a statement that New York will not turn a blind eye to the dangers on our roads,” Brown added. “AJ’s legacy will not only be remembered, but it will serve as a beacon for safer streets across our state.