Lake Placid, NY, Jul 13, 2010 — Gov. David Paterson signed a new law closing a legal loophole that prevented the driver accused of killing Olympic medalist and Lake Placid native Jack Shea from standing trial.

It authorizes certified nurse practitioners and advanced emergency medical technicians to draw blood from motorists suspected of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol--without a doctor present. Paterson says "Jack Shea's Law" simply brings the legal standard into conformity with standard medical practice.

In 2002, a driver faced charges in the crash outside Lake Placid that killed 91-year-old Shea, who won two gold medals for speedskating at the 1932 Olympics. Martha Foley has more.  Go to full article

Malone, NY, Jun 01, 2010 — A majority of New York's counties have asked for a delay in implementation of a new state law toughening penalties for people who drive drunk with children in the vehicle.

The new law mandates monitoring devices in the cars of some people convicted under "Leandra's Law." County probation heads say the devices are a good idea, but they're expensive, and the state hasn't provided any help in paying for them. They call the extra costs an "unfunded mandate" -- and an unfair burden in tough economic times.

Gov. David Paterson says he won't grant a delay, and he wants implementation plans by June 15. Martha Foley has more.  Go to full article

May 03, 2005 — Governor Pataki and the legislature have agreed on a bill to strengthen penalties against drunk drivers, at the urging of a mother whose son was killed by a man charged with driving drunk. Karen DeWitt reports.  Go to full article

Apr 20, 2005 — The New York State Senate and Assembly have agreed on a bill to stiffen penalties against hit and run drivers. Karen DeWitt reports.  Go to full article

Jul 04, 2003 — A state appeals court has made a ruling in the drunken driving accident that killed Lake Placid Olympian Jack Shea
in 2002.  Go to full article

Jun 11, 2003 — Governor Pataki is criticizing the State Assembly for not passing
legislation to crack down on drunk drivers. Karen DeWitt reports.  Go to full article

Jul 10, 2001 — The state Senate is urging the Assembly to pass more restrictive DWI legislation. Karen DeWitt reports.  Go to full article