In memory of my beloved 18-year-old son and 20-year-old daughter-in-law, I am writing this petition to urge the State of Maryland to take decisive action against impaired driving and fatal hit-and-run crashes. Three years have passed since their young lives were senselessly taken by an impaired driver under the influence of a lethal mix of cocaine and fentanyl. Their deaths left an everlasting impact on our family and the community.

Evan and Dystanei had bright futures ahead of them, full of promise and potential. The pain of their loss is something I carry with me every day, and it is a pain shared by countless families who have suffered similar tragedies at the hands of impaired drivers. Each statistic represents not only a life lost but a network of loved ones left behind, struggling to comprehend a preventable act.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, each year nearly 30% of all traffic fatalities in the United States involve a driver impaired by alcohol or drugs. In Maryland alone, hundreds of families face the heartache of similar loss annually. Clearly, we need stronger deterrents and enforcement measures to reduce these preventable deaths.

We propose 'Evan and Dystanei's Law' specifically to address these concerns. This law will enforce stricter penalties for impaired driving offenses, including mandatory minimum sentences for those found guilty of fatal hit-and-runs. Additionally, the law will require ignition interlock devices for all convicted offenders and demand comprehensive drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs as part of their sentencing.

Moreover, the law will call for increased funding for law enforcement to combat impaired driving, including more frequent sobriety checkpoints and training for officers on the latest detection technologies to ensure swifter identification and apprehension. It will also establish educational initiatives aimed at raising awareness about the devastating consequences of driving under the influence.

By enacting this legislation, Maryland can lead the way in protecting its citizens and holding offenders accountable. These stronger laws will not only provide justice for victims and their families but will also prevent future tragedies by acting as a powerful deterrent for potential offenders.

I call upon the Maryland General Assembly, the Maryland State Senate, the Maryland House of Delegates, and the Governor of Maryland to honor the memory of Evan and Dystanei by introducing and passing this life-saving legislation. With heartfelt sincerity and urgency, I ask for your support. Please sign this petition to act now, before more lives are irreparably damaged.