Senator Charles J. Fuschillo Jr. announced recently that Governor George E. Pataki signed into law legislation that he co-sponsored which would toughen penalties against juvenile offenders who commit adult crimes and are convicted of second degree murder.

According to Fuschillo, Úquot;Penny's LawÚquot; is named in memory of Penny Brown, a 39-year-old mother, wife and nurse who was raped and murdered on Mother's Day in 1999 while jogging with her two dogs. Her killer, a 15-year-old neighbor, who was tried and convicted as an adult, was sentenced as a juvenile to just nine years in prison, the maximum sentence available under current law. The bill would increase the minimum and maximum penalty for juvenile offenders ages 14 and 15 convicted of second degree murder to 7-1/2 years to 15 years instead of the current five to nine years.

Úquot;I am pleased that Governor Pataki has joined me in the fight against juvenile violence,Úquot; Fuschillo said. Úquot;Penny's Law represents meaningful juvenile justice reform and ensures that juveniles who commit murder receive tough punishment to fit their crimes and that the victims of these crimes receive justice.Úquot;

Penny's Law is set to take effect Nov. 1.

Senator Fuschillo announced recently that a free, comprehensive Natural Disaster Preparedness Guide is now available on his website, www.senatorfuschillo.com. Residents can access the guide by visiting Senator Fuschillo's website and clicking on the link found on the right side of the screen.

Úquot;Families can never be too prepared for potentially dangerous situations,Úquot; said Fuschillo. Úquot;With hurricane season upon us, it is imperative that families plan and discuss what to do in the event of a natural disaster. In the event of a natural disaster, knowledge and preparation are the two most important factors in protecting one's family.Úquot;

The Natural Disaster Preparedness Guide details disaster supply kits, family escape plans, car and home safety, as well as disaster-specific instructions for tornadoes and hurricanes. The guide can also be found in brochure form at Fuschillo's District Office, and can be requested by calling 546-4100.