Suffolk County Leg. Steve Stern (D-Huntington), 16th LD recently appeared on WBAB/WBLI radio station in partnership with Allstate's Safe Teen Drive Long Island program, which is offering every public and private high school in Nassau and Suffolk counties, a $1,000 grant to increase safe driving awareness among teenagers. Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among American teenagers and crash rates are the highest for drivers 16-19 years of age.

Grant money must be used for projects that encourage responsible and smart driving by teenagers. For example, a prom night event centered on safe driving or a rally or assembly with a safe teen driving theme could be an effective way to raise awareness. Schools should receive application packages within the next few weeks. The deadline to apply is April 15 with projects or events completed by June 7. To apply for this grant, e-mail Allstate at teensafedrive@allstate.com and request an electronic copy of the application to complete and return via e-mail.

As the sponsor of many initiatives and as Chairman of the Underage Drinking Task Force, Legislator Stern is proud to play a role in promoting this great synergy and helping to encourage responsible and smart driving by teens. "Far too frequently we read about tragic accidents involving teenagers," Legislator Stern said. "I applaud Allstate for this innovative grant program and encourage local schools to participate and promote safe driving by young people across Long Island."

For more information, please contact Leg. Stern's office at 631- 854-5100.