(BOSTON 1/23/2023) — This morning, the Massachusetts State Senate passed a resolution recognizing The National Safety Council for their work to commemorate the week of January 22nd – January 28th, 2023 as National Passenger Safety Week. This resolution recognizes the urgent rise of traffic deaths across the country and commends the National Safety Council for their work with partner organizations in promoting passenger safety on Massachusetts roads.
“Traffic deaths are preventable tragedies that happen each and every day,” said Senator Michael Moore (D-Millbury). “The National Safety Council is doing critical work by educating drivers on the danger of distracted, impaired, and aggressive driving, while promoting safer driving practices such as the use of seatbelts. I’m thrilled to have joined with my colleagues in the Senate to pass this resolution.”
“Thank you to the Massachusetts Senate, and to the Resolution sponsor, Senator Moore, for recognizing the importance of National Passenger Safety Week as our nation continues urgent discussions to end the crisis occurring on our roadways. Everyone on the road, no matter what seat they’re in, has the right to stay safe,” said Mark Chung, executive vice president of roadway practice at the National Safety Council.
Passenger vehicle occupant deaths accounted for 35% of all traffic fatalities nationwide in 2020, increasing by 10% that year, and by an additional 9% in 2021, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. These historic increases in traffic deaths occurred in spite of a 13% decline in vehicle miles traveled.
The resolution was passed during an informal session on Monday, January 23rd. It was sponsored by Senator Michael Moore, and co-sponsored by Senators Becca Rausch, Paul Mark, Anne Gobi, Sal DiDomenico, Patricia Jehlen, Patrick O’Connor, Adam Gomez, Jacob Oliveira, Robyn Kennedy, Pavel Payano, John Velis, James Eldridge, Nick Collins, Edward Kennedy, Mark Montigny, Joan Lovely, John Keenan, Michael Brady, Marc Pacheco, and Jason Lewis.
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