November 13, 2014

Zupkus, House GOP Legislators Honored by MADD

This article was archived from the previous WordPress site. Formatting and media should be close, but may not match the original post perfectly.

NEW HAVEN — House Republican legislators on Wednesday were among people honored as “Community Champions” for their efforts to strengthen intoxicated driving laws and for raising awareness to MADD campaigns to promote safe and sober driving.

Reps. Themis Klarides, Lezlye Zupkus, Richard Smith and Al Adinolfi participated in a special ceremony at Anthony’s Ocean View banquet facility, where they were joined by other state lawmakers, community activists, journalists, attorneys and law enforcement officials dedicated to eradicating drunken driving.

“It is a great honor to receive this award,” said Klarides, incoming House Republican Leader who serves the 114th District covering Woodbridge, Derby and part of Orange. “I am proud to support the initiatives of the MADD organization, who has worked tirelessly to keep our motorists educated on safe driving practices.”

Like Klarides, lawmakers Smith, Zupkus and Cheshire resident Adinolfi have pushed for policies that would improve public safety—with the latter two focusing on child passengers.

“I am humbled by MADD’s recognition and honored to be working with such a well-functioning organization like theirs,” said 103rd District representative Adinolfi, who joined Zupkus in advocating for legislation that would see anyone arrested for DUI with children in the vehicle exposed to a felony risk of injury charge. “We still have a lot of work to do, but I am up for the challenge and I believe the decision-makers in Hartford are ready.”

Zupkus, like Adinolfi, has encouraged residents to “Tie One On For Safety” during a holiday season campaign to raise awareness for sober driving.

“I truly appreciate the opportunity and honor to stand alongside so many people who have made significant contributions to their communities and our state,” said Zupkus, who represents the 89th District serving Bethany, Cheshire, and Prospect. “Highlighting the dangers and too often devastating impact of drunken driving is a necessary mission, and I’m proud to be recognized as someone who has and will continue to help.”

During the 2014 legislative session, 108th District Representative Smith supported a proposal requiring an immediate ignition interlock device (IID) for anyone arrested for driving intoxicated, along with harsher penalties for anyone refusing to use the required IID.

“It is an honor to be recognized by such a strong voice of advocacy,” Smith said. “The people at MADD are trying to make our roads safer and educate our drivers. In the legislature, we are using their voice to make a real impact. I am humbled by their gratitude.”