This week, Assemblyman Dave McDonough (R,C,I-Merrick) represented the Assembly Minority delegation during the Joint Budget Conference Committee Meeting on Transportation. During his remarks, McDonough addressed important safety issues related to transportation, including speed zone cameras in school zones; increasing penalties for drivers under the age of 21 who text while driving; and increasing penalties for drivers who commit multiple DWI infractions.

“Transportation is one of the most vital issues for communities across Long Island,” said McDonough. “While I remain committed to providing our communities the transportation funding they need, I felt it was extremely pertinent to address some of the safety issues which were lacking in the Assembly Majority’s budget. I will continue to serve as a vocal supporter of speed zone cameras in school districts. I believe these cameras truly keep our children safer. I also would like to see increased penalties for drivers who break the law by committing multiple DWI violations. These drivers risk not only their lives but the lives of all those around them. Finally, texting while driving remains a serious safety issue on the road, and I want to express my support for stricter penalties for young drivers who text while driving. This week was simply the start to the budget negotiations, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to deliver the resources our community needs.”

Video of Assemblyman McDonough’s testimony during the committee meeting can be found at http://youtu.be/tgSD1WYtD64.