Sammy’s Law

Summary of Sammy's Law

Please note: Because no official description was provided for this bill, the following summary is based on what is publicly known about legislation introduced under the name "Sammy's Law." Please verify the specific bill text for complete accuracy.

Sammy's Law is a bill that would allow cities and towns to set lower speed limits on their local streets than what is currently permitted under state law — specifically, allowing municipalities to lower speed limits to as low as 20 miles per hour in certain areas. Under current rules in many states, local governments must follow state-set minimums for speed limits, which can prevent communities from slowing down traffic in areas they consider dangerous. This bill would give local governments more flexibility to make their own decisions about safe speeds on local roads.

The bill is named in memory of Sammy Cohen Eckstein, a child who was killed in a traffic accident in New York City. It primarily affects local governments, city planners, and transportation officials who want the authority to reduce speed limits in neighborhoods, school zones, or pedestrian-heavy areas. It would also directly affect everyday drivers on local roads and residents who live in communities seeking to improve pedestrian safety.

The bill has been introduced in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, meaning it is still in the early stages of the legislative process and has not yet become law.