New York Senate Bill S06952

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/27/25
• Refer: 3/27/25
• Engrossed: 6/11/25
• Refer: 6/11/25

Caption

Dedicates a portion of the state highway system including the bridge on the South Service Road, between Federal Circle and Perimeter Road Overpass, crossing over the Van Wyck Expressway in Jamaica to Port Authority Police Officers Arthur M. Ansert Jr. and William J. Leahy.

Impact

The law will lead to the installation of the designated signage on the highway system as specified in the bill. The signage will serve not only as a tribute to the two fallen officers but will also be a reminder of the risks law enforcement personnel face in their daily duties. While ceremonial in nature, this act adds a layer of recognition for law enforcement within the realm of transportation infrastructure.

Summary

Bill S06952 proposes to dedicate a portion of the state highway system, specifically the bridge on the South Service Road that crosses over the Van Wyck Expressway in Jamaica, Queens, in honor of Port Authority Police Officers Arthur M. Ansert Jr. and William J. Leahy. This act is intended as a gesture of remembrance and respect for the contributions and sacrifices made by these officers. The dedication will include appropriate signage indicating the bridge's memorial status, although the official name of the bridge will remain unchanged to avoid any confusion or interruption to commerce.

Contention

There may be varying levels of support for this memorialization effort. Some may argue that such dedications are important for public recognition of service and sacrifice, while others may raise concerns about the frequency and appropriateness of similar dedications. The balancing act involves ensuring that such honors do not interfere with the operational aspects of the transportation system or lead to confusion among drivers.