Dear Governor Hochul, New York State Senate, and New York State Assembly,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to you not only as a concerned New Yorker but as someone who has seen firsthand the impact of our current wrongful death laws. I am urging you to sign the Grieving Families Act, a piece of legislation that is long overdue in providing justice and compassion to families in their most difficult times.

In particular, I would like to remind you of the heartbreaking tragedy that occurred on Mamaroneck Avenue on June 20, 2024, where, my son, Michael Volpe, and his mother, my ex-wife, Molly Donovan, lost their lives in a devastating crash caused by gross negligence. They were in a crosswalk and the schoolbus driver did not see them and ran them over. The bus was filled with children. The street was filled with parents and children. This tragic incident is just one painful example of why we need to modernize our laws. Families everywhere deserve the right to seek not only financial redress, but also acknowledgment of their emotional suffering and loss.

The fact is that the County of Westchester is also at fault as parents had complained numerous times before this accident. I can sue the County of Westchester, but that would mean the taxpayers pay, again. I am suing the bus company, but they are saying (as you are, if you don't sign the bill) that my son's life has no value. 

I understand that there are some concerns about the economic implications. However, I believe that as a community, we must prioritize our families above all else, no matter what the cost. What kind of state would we be if we don't value our children's lives and safety above all else? My family is enduring unimaginable pain. Forty-seven states have shown that it is possible to strike this balance and have similar laws in effect. By signing the Grieving Families Act, you will be taking a meaningful step toward a more just and compassionate New York.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

And I thank God that you, and most everyone else who has signed this, can go home to share Christmas with your children this year and be safe and sound, and together, in love and safety. I cannot. Ever again.

Sincerely,

Thomas Volpe,

co-signed by everyone below...

SOME OF THE PRIOR PRESS, MANY WITH VIDEO:

Kindergarten boy and mother die after being struck by bus walking to Mamaroneck school​

No charges for bus driver who fatally struck mother, kindergartner in Mamaroneck​

Mamaroneck community mourning mother Molly Donovan, son Michael Donovan Volpe killed in school bus accident​

Grandfather of Mamaroneck's Michael Donovan Volpe discusses tragedy: 'He was so loved'​Candlelight vigil remembers mother and 6-year-old son killed by school bus in Mamaroneck​

Mamaroneck remembers mother, son struck and killed by mini-bus​

Neighbors Turn To Each Other For Peace In The Face Of Tragic Loss​

Mamaroneck road where mother, child were killed sees more crashes than average, report says. Here's what can be done to improve safety.​

No charges for bus driver who fatally struck mother, kindergartner​

Kindergartner, mother struck and killed by school bus in Mamaroneck identified ​

Mamaroneck mother and son struck and killed by school bus remembered at vigil