Nicholas “Nick” Puzio was an amazing light in this world. On March 12, 2023, Nick lost his life due to the reckless choices made by two drivers who committed a hit-and-run. Nick was on foot, attempting to cross the road, which under NYS law: Pedestrians have the right of way in all crosswalks and at intersections with marked or unmarked crosswalks. These drivers not only broke the law by not yielding to Nick, a pedestrian, the penalty of their actions would only see them face a maximum 2-7 years in prison for leaving the scene of an accident with a fatality involved. As well, these drivers if charged with Vehicular Manslaughter, would see a maximum 5 to 15 years in prison.

Nick’s Law aims to increase the penalties of drivers who commit such atrocities, leaving the scene of an accident with a fatality and vehicular manslaughter. It is not fair nor okay that Nick’s family and friends have to live their whole lives without his beaming soul, while the drivers that took his life get off easy.

Under the proposal of Nick’s Law, a driver who leaves the scene of an accident with a fatality would face a minimum 10-15 years in jail for their heinous acts, no matter their legal history. Nick’s Law would also call for all drivers, who commit a fatal hit-and-run, to automatically be charged with vehicular manslaughter. Nick's Law would also see that fatal hit-and-run incidents are raised from a Class D Violent Felony to a Class B Violent Felony.  

For far too long, hit-and-run drivers have been acquitted by our legal system. Many of the cases that are brought to trial end with the defendant getting off with probation or as little as three years in jail. Now, with the recent bail reforms enacted by the NYS Senate, Assembly and Governor, these penalties are even more lax.

It is time for change! This is a call to Albany to protect the citizens of New York State and not criminal behavior. Our Justice System is supposed to bring exactly as its name states, JUSTICE, to victims and their families.

It is time for change. We are calling on Albany to make much needed changes to ensure no other family has to face the grief of knowing the perpetrator gets off easy.