Assemblyman Jeff Gallahan (R,C-Manchester) attended a press conference calling for the immediate passage of Melanie’s Law (A.6026/S.6288) alongside Assemblyman Anil Beephan, Jr. (R,C-East Fishkill), Assemblyman Brian A. Cunningham (D-43^rd District), Sen. Michelle Hinchey, Sen. Rob Rolison and Cheryl Chianese, Melanie’s mother. Melanie Chianese was killed by her mother’s ex-boyfriend after Melanie was not included in her mother’s order of protection—she was deemed ineligible due to her age. Melanie’s Law will allow courts to issue orders of protection for immediate family members or household members of victims of domestic violence, regardless of age.

 “The loophole that denied Melanie’s inclusion under her mother’s order of protection should never have existed,” said Gallahan. “I am thankful we are now working together to eliminate this unreasonable loophole and protect those whose lives are in danger. My condolences to the Chianese family—their lives have been changed forever, but I hope they can find some peace in knowing that Melanie’s sacrifice was not in vain and will spark the change needed to prevent tragedies like this one from occurring in the future.”

Editor’s Note: To read Melanie’s Law (A.6026/S.6288), please click here.