Help secure passage of hit-and-run law

I am asking the citizens of the state of New Jersey to help me get "Skinner's and Michelle's Law" passed through the Senate and signed into law by our governor.

Almost three years ago on Nov. 14, 2003, my father, Lawrence R. Skinner Sr., was working on the Brandriff Avenue Bridge in Millville. He was struck and killed by a person driving a triaxle dump truck.

Over six years ago, Michelle Margaritonda lost her life to a hit-and-run driver. Those of us who have lost loved ones, grieve every day since those horrible days and wish that no one would have to go through what we have gone through.

I am asking the citizens to help me by writing to our state senators and asking for their support on Bill S-1418 (A-1038) - "Skinner's and Michelle's Law."

This bill will increase the penalty of hit-and-run drivers in the state of New Jersey. Right now the penalty is up to five years in jail and/or a $15,000 fine, which is a third-degree crime.

This bill will increase the penalty so someone that is convicted of such a horrible crime can serve up to 10 years in jail and/or a $150,000 fine, which is a second degree crime.

On average four people a day are killed by hit-and-run drivers; many more are seriously injured. This bill will hopefully get people to realize that stopping your vehicle when it is involved in an accident is the right thing and the only thing to do.

Too many families suffer in the end when someone decides to drive away. My family has suffered for almost three years since my father was hit and will continue to suffer our loss for the rest of our lives.

To this day the driver and truck are still at large; our family knows that one day this driver will be found and serve the punishment that will be handed down to him or her.

I have spoken to numerous New Jersey families that have lost a loved one to a hit-and-run driver. We stand together in support of "Skinner's and Michelle's Law." What we go through every day, we do not want another family in our state to go through.

On June 22, the full state Assembly passed bill A-1038 with support from Assemblyman Jeff Van Drew. We are looking for the full state Senate to pass this bill as well. As of today, we have Sen. Nicholas Asselta and Sen. Fred Madden supporting the bill.

Please go to the following Web site: www.njleg.state.nj.us/members/

abcroster.asp.

Write to all the senators and ask for their support on Bill S-1418 (A-1038), "Skinner's and Michelle's Law" and make your streets safer for your family.

Together we can maybe make a difference in our community. Our loved ones deserve the honor that this bill gives. This bill is not only in honor of Larry and Michelle but of all victims of hit-and-run accidents and their families.

Lisa Miles

Vineland