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HARTFORD — State Rep. Tami Zawistowski on Monday supported legislation that gives authorities an open-ended ability to prosecute hit-and-run drivers that cause a fatality.
The legislation (H.B. 5592) eliminates the statute of limitations on this particular type of motor vehicle crime, and it passed through the House by a unanimous vote Monday evening.
“The cowardly ability to live in the shadows, to avoid charges from police, shouldn’t be a pass to freedom,” said Zawistowski, who represents Suffield, East Granby and Windsor. “This legislation goes a long way toward making certain perpetrators are subject to prosecution no matter when they’re caught.”
Several legislators on Monday shared personal or constituent-based stories, including one of a woman’s shock that an under-the-influence driver who killed her sister couldn’t be charged because the statute of limitations had expired by the time he decided to turn himself in 21 years later.
“People who lose a loved one in this manner deserve closure,” Zawistowski said. “This bill ensures that they get that opportunity—no matter how much time passes.”
The legislation awaits action in the state senate.
