The nominal deadline for introducing bills in the RI Gerrtal Assembly has passed and here are some observations;
Bills to up penalties when a motorist not taking “due care” kills or injures a bicyclist, pedestrian, or other “vulnerable road user have been filed,” namely H5656, S246 thanks to sponsors Rep. Carson and Sen. Sosnowski. The RI Bike Coaltion asked for these to be introduced, one of the “model bike legislation” ideas promoted by the League of American Bicyclists.
RIBike also is interested in H5634 (Tanzi) and S267 (Sosnowski) banning most use of hand-held cell phones when driving. It was introduced last year, and passed the State Senate but died in the House. Prospects are better this year because there is a House companion bill and the AAA has withdrawn opposition since they realize its the only way to really enforce the no-texting-while-driving law. There is a Traffic Safety Coaltion (where RIBike is represented) that is interested in these bills.
There are alo bills related to increasing penalties for hit-and-run, against drunk driving, and about traffic safety education.
Help is needed! For more info, feel free to contact Barry Schiller, RIBike legisaltiove chair, 353-6536 or bschiller@localnet.com