On February 29, 2024, Associate Policy Director Brianna January testified before the House Environment and Transportation Committee in support of HB 1160 – Motor Vehicles – Allowing Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle and Reckless, Negligent, and Aggressive Driving. This bill updates penalties for existing prohibitions and establishes several new violations to deter aggressive, reckless, and negligent driving. Court procedures are also updated for individuals alleged to be in violation of these motor vehicle laws.
More frequently than ever, horrific traffic accidents have claimed the lives or good health of county workers across the state. Law enforcement officers, construction workers, surveyors, public works officials, and school bus drivers are working on and near roadways every day. If the rise in reckless driving is left unaddressed, these indispensable county workers will continue to have their lives put at risk just for doing their jobs.
Not only does HB 1160 hold reckless drivers accountable for behaviors that have led to a surge in the frequency and severity of incidents that are regularly putting county employees at risk, but it sets a new standard of safety in communities for all residents.
HB 1160’s cross-file, SB 940, was heard on March 6, 2024 in the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee. Sarah Sample testified in support of this bill.
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