2007 Senate Bill 479

Increase penalties for endangering certain on-road workers

Introduced in the Senate

May 8, 2007

Introduced by Sen. Roger Kahn (R-32)

To establish penalties for failing to use due care and caution (as defined in the bill) when passing a solid waste collection vehicle (garbage truck), utility service vehicle, or road maintenance vehicle (all of which make frequent stops in which workers may get out on the road), and the vehicle has a flashing light. The penalty would be up to 90 days and a $500 fine, up to two years if the action causes an injury, and up to 15 years if it causes a death.

Referred to the Committee on Transportation

May 31, 2007

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the substitute (S-1) be adopted and that the bill then pass.

June 6, 2007

Substitute offered

To replace the previous version of the bill with one that revises details but does not change the substance of the bill as previously described. The substitute also gives the workers on the service vehicles a duty to not act "in careless disregard" for their own safety.

The substitute passed by voice vote

June 7, 2007

Passed in the Senate 38 to 0 (details)

Received in the House

June 7, 2007

Referred to the Committee on Transportation