TRAFFIC SAFETY

Safety on the State's highways had a high priority on Gover-
nor Tawes' executive agenda. He not only expressed dismay at
the incidence of traffic deaths but used the power of his office
in attempting to stem the highway slaughter. Public education
was the keystone in the Governor's program and he made
numerous addresses on this subject, some of which are in-
cluded in this collection.

In addition to educational activities, the Governor sought
legislation and took administrative steps aimed at reducing
the State's annual highway death toll. Constructive actions
toward that end included the reorganization of the Depart-
ment of Motor Vehicles, strengthening of the State Police,
the establishment of a point system, the use of drunkometer
tests,. creation of a fund to aid high schools offering driver
education programs, and the establishment of State-wide driver
rehabilitation clinics. During the Governor's first term, a
special committee was appointed to study the need for a State
automobile inspection law, later enacted.

ADDRESS, GRADUATION EXERCISES
MOTOR FLEET SUPERVISORS INSTITUTE

COLLEGE PARK

April 10, 1959

At the outset, I should like to extend congratulations to all the
graduates of this Twelfth Annual Motor Fleet Supervisors Institute.
You and the officers of the Institute deserve the highest praise for the
interest you have shown and the work you have done in the prevention
of highway accidents.

Governor Abraham Ribicoff of Connecticut, whose crusade for traffic
safety brought nation-wide fame to himself and to his state, has called
killing by automobile plain "murder. " At first blush, this appraisal
seems a little harsh. Yet, it is hard for me to make the distinction between
the man who kills with a gun and the man who kills in the negligent
operation of a motor vehicle.

A feeling of horror and shame grips me every time I read the

549