On April 23, 2025, we received the news that shattered our lives forever. My 23-year-old son, Connor Elliott Lopez, a gifted pianist and the heart of our family, was tragically killed by a negligent and reckless driver. Connor radiated joy and kindness. He loved life and was excited about his future. Connor was innocent. The driver, responsible for taking away the life of my precious boy, may be given a diversion program by the state of California, instead of facing time behind bars. Today, that individual is still on the road, free to drive, as if nothing happened. Under current California law, most people convicted of vehicular manslaughter are not held accountable in a way that reflects the gravity of their crime. Instead of losing their license or serving jail time, these individuals are almost always placed in diversion programs—allowing them to avoid a conviction by completing coursework or community service, effectively letting them dodge real consequences. Worse yet, there is no limit to how many times they can be granted a diversion program and once completed, the charges are dismissed! There is no record of their crime.  The leniency of this system means that negligent and reckless drivers, who have already proved dangerous, are allowed to continue driving without facing any repercussions. This not only fails the families who have lost loved ones but also puts every Californian at risk each time these individuals get behind the wheel. Between 2019 and 2024, over 20,000 lives were lost on our roads: more than killed by guns. How many lives does it take- we need change! It is imperative to revoke the eligibility of diversion programs for those convicted of vehicular manslaughter. Such grave offenses require more substantial consequences—measures that restrict these individuals from driving or, at the very least, keep them off the roads for a significant period. Legislation must be amended to ensure that those who have demonstrated a disregard for human life are held accountable. Justice for Connor Elliott Lopez means ensuring that no other family has to endure the anguish of losing a loved one to a negligent and reckless driver who evades real punishment through the loophole of diversion programs. Join us in urging California lawmakers to take immediate action to protect our roads and families. Please sign this petition to demand the law be amended to exclude vehicular manslaughter from diversion programs! Official Website - Assemblymember Lori Wilson Representing the 11th California Assembly District California State Assembly, Committee on Transportation Home | Senator Roger Niello Contact the Governor | Governor of California Official State Assembly Website | AD08 | David Tangipa