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Lawmaker Wants Crackdown On Scofflaw Drivers In Wake Of Boy's Death In Queens

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/AP) -- There are new calls for tougher penalties for driving with a suspended license after a third grader was killed in a traffic accident last week in Queens.

State Sen. Michael Gianaris said he is introducing a bill Monday that would allow prosecutors to file felony charges against drivers who kill or seriously hurt someone while driving with a suspended license.

Right now it is a misdemeanor.

"Dealing with people who we know are dangerous, doing what's necessary to deter them from getting behind the wheel is critical," Gianaris told 1010 WINS. "Right now, people with suspended licenses don't feel they need to stay off the roads because there is very little punishment when they do get on the roads."

The move follows the death of 8-year-old Noshat Nahian, who was struck and killed by a tractor-trailer on Friday as he walked to school.

The truck's driver, 51-year-old Mauricio Osorio-Palominos, was driving with a suspended license, police said.

He was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and operating a vehicle in violation of safety rules.

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