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07/22/2021 12:01 AMState Representative Devin Carney (R-23), who serves as Ranking Member of the Transportation Committee, has signed a petition to request a special session on the juvenile crime crisis. The call to action follows a week where a New Britain man was struck and killed by a stolen vehicle operated by a repeat juvenile offender, as well as an incident in Glastonbury where shots were fired at a resident when she was confronting individuals attempting to steal her car. There have also been numerous reported incidents of car thefts and break-ins across the 23rd District over the past few years.
“I have signed a petition requesting a special session so we can address a major public safety issue,” said Carney. “A bipartisan agreement is needed to protect teenagers, local residents, and even law enforcement, but all parties need to be at the table. No one wants to see a young person’s life ruined, but we also need to hold repeat offenders accountable. Let’s find a way to deter youth from these crimes by giving them more support while also allowing the police and the court system to do their jobs. Keeping everyone safe is a top priority.”
Leaders from both House caucuses and Senate Republicans met July 8 to discuss the issue as a first step towards reaching a bipartisan solution. Governor Ned Lamont can also call members of the General Assembly into a special legislative session. While lawmakers can call themselves back to Hartford by petition—a majority of the membership in each chamber, House and Senate, must file petitions with the Office of the Secretary of the State.