Two state senators want to rename ‘Move Over Law’ for Trooper Sean Cullen

Two state senators want to rename the state's "Move Over Law" in memory of New Jersey state Police Trooper Sean Cullen, who was killed Monday while responding to a car fire on Route 295.

Cullen, a graduate of Cinnaminson High School, died after he was hit by a car Monday night as he stood alongside a car fire in West Deptford. His funeral is being held Monday, March 14, at St. Charles Borromeo Church in Cinnaminson.

“Trooper Cullen’s death is a stark reminder of the tremendous risk he and all emergency responders face as they work to protect their communities from harm,” said state Senator Diane Allen, (R-Burlington County) in a statement. “Law enforcement officers are especially vulnerable working in or around busy streets, intersections and highways, such as southbound 295, where Sean tragically lost his life. It is imperative that motorists be made aware of their presences.”

Then-Gov. Jon Corzine signed the "The New Jersey Move Over Law" in 2009, requiring drivers to reduce speeds and move over one lane when approaching an emergency service vehicle or tow truck displaying flashing lights. Violators can face fines of up to $500.

Allen and state Senator Anthony Bucco (R-Morris County) said they plan to introduce legislation to rename the law in memory of Cullen on Monday.

“As an original sponsor of the New Jersey Move Over Law, it is truly a privilege for me to join Senator Allen in this important effort to honor Trooper Cullen,” Bucco said in a statement.

“Sean was a beloved brother, devoted son, and a soon-to-be husband and father to an infant son," Bucco said. "It is my hope that renaming this law in his memory will raise awareness of this critical, lifesaving legislation, so that no other family ever has to bear such a devastating loss.”

Cullen, 31, was engaged to be married and left behind a 9-month-old son. In the wake of his death, Christopher Burgos, president of the State Trooper Fraternal Association, urged motorists to obey the law and said that troopers are more likely to be injured or killed by vehicles than guns or knives.

A GoFundMe page has been created to provide financial assistance to Cullen's finance and son and has already raised more than double its $50,000 goal.