Jeneka’s Law: Protecting Indiana Roads by Holding Underage Drivers Accountable

Recent signers:
Lacey Langdon and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

On April 10, 2023, our world shattered. Jeneka Lancaster—our daughter, sister, and radiant soul—was taken from us in a car crash caused by a teen driver. Her life, full of kindness, laughter, and endless potential, was stolen in an instant. Yet nearly two years later, we are still waiting for accountability. There has been no justice, and no meaningful consequence for the young driver involved. And that’s the problem. Right now in Indiana, a minor can cause a fatal crash and continue driving—facing little to no immediate consequence. This is not just unacceptable; it’s dangerous. We believe that driving is a privilege, not a right, and with that privilege must come real responsibility. We are not calling for punishment—we are calling for change, for awareness, and for prevention. In Jeneka’s name—and for the safety of every Indiana family—we propose the following legislative changes: Mandatory License Suspension
If a driver under 18 is involved in a fatal crash or one that causes serious bodily injury, and is determined to be at fault through police investigation or administrative review—not just a court ruling—their license should be suspended immediately for a minimum of 6 months to 1 year. This ensures accountability without waiting years for legal proceedings and gives the young driver time for reflection, growth, and education. Educational & Restorative Requirements
Before having their license reinstated, the teen should be required to complete a certified defensive driving course and participate in a victim impact or restorative justice program. These experiences are meant to educate and heal, not shame.

Stronger Consequences for Negligent Driving
If the crash involved distracted or reckless behavior—such as texting, speeding, or other forms of negligence—additional consequences should apply, including extended suspension and mandatory community service focused on traffic safety. These proposals are not about retribution. They are about protecting lives, encouraging responsibility, and ensuring that no other family has to suffer the way we have. Jeneka mattered. Her life mattered. And this law will help make sure her death was not in vain. We urge the Indiana Legislature to take action—now—not just in memory of Jeneka, but in protection of every life on our roads. Please sign and share. Let’s turn heartbreak into change. #LiveLikeJeneka 🌻#JusticeForJeneka #DriveWithPurpose

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Recent signers:
Lacey Langdon and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

On April 10, 2023, our world shattered. Jeneka Lancaster—our daughter, sister, and radiant soul—was taken from us in a car crash caused by a teen driver. Her life, full of kindness, laughter, and endless potential, was stolen in an instant. Yet nearly two years later, we are still waiting for accountability. There has been no justice, and no meaningful consequence for the young driver involved. And that’s the problem. Right now in Indiana, a minor can cause a fatal crash and continue driving—facing little to no immediate consequence. This is not just unacceptable; it’s dangerous. We believe that driving is a privilege, not a right, and with that privilege must come real responsibility. We are not calling for punishment—we are calling for change, for awareness, and for prevention. In Jeneka’s name—and for the safety of every Indiana family—we propose the following legislative changes: Mandatory License Suspension
If a driver under 18 is involved in a fatal crash or one that causes serious bodily injury, and is determined to be at fault through police investigation or administrative review—not just a court ruling—their license should be suspended immediately for a minimum of 6 months to 1 year. This ensures accountability without waiting years for legal proceedings and gives the young driver time for reflection, growth, and education. Educational & Restorative Requirements
Before having their license reinstated, the teen should be required to complete a certified defensive driving course and participate in a victim impact or restorative justice program. These experiences are meant to educate and heal, not shame.

Stronger Consequences for Negligent Driving
If the crash involved distracted or reckless behavior—such as texting, speeding, or other forms of negligence—additional consequences should apply, including extended suspension and mandatory community service focused on traffic safety. These proposals are not about retribution. They are about protecting lives, encouraging responsibility, and ensuring that no other family has to suffer the way we have. Jeneka mattered. Her life mattered. And this law will help make sure her death was not in vain. We urge the Indiana Legislature to take action—now—not just in memory of Jeneka, but in protection of every life on our roads. Please sign and share. Let’s turn heartbreak into change. #LiveLikeJeneka 🌻#JusticeForJeneka #DriveWithPurpose

The Decision Makers

Todd Rokita
Indiana Attorney General
Indiana Circuit Court Judge
2 Members
Monica Gilmore
Indiana Circuit Court Judge - 12th Circuit (Knox County)
Hubert Branstetter
Indiana Circuit Court Judge - 73rd Circuit (Fayette County)

Supporter Voices

Petition Updates