News from the Senate Majority
Alaska State Legislature

Wendy Lindskoog, Senate Majority Press Secretary
State Capitol
Juneau, AK 99801-1182
Phone: 907/465-4582
http://www.akrepublicans.org
Broadcast Actualities: 800/478-6540

Bill Increases Fines in Highway Construction Zones

For Immediate Release: April 6, 1998 Contact: James Armstrong, Assistant to Senator Dave Donley, at (907) 465-6581.

Juneau - The Senate Monday unanimously passed legislation to double the fines for moving traffic violations in construction zones. Senate Bill 304, sponsored by Senator Dave Donley (R-Anchorage), was introduced in an effort to help protect highway construction workers.

"When our highway construction crews work to improve Alaska’s roadways, they run a high risk of being injured by reckless drivers," said Senator Donley. "Because our workers put their lives on the line, it is essential the Legislature do all it can to protect them from harm."

"Twenty six other states have increased sanctions for careless motorists who recklessly endanger the safety of roadway workers," said Senator Donley. "These states, after putting larger deterrents in place through increased penalties, have achieved a significant reduction in the number of work zone accidents. By increasing the penalties for careless driving, I hope people will be more careful when they take to the roads and that Alaska will experience a similar reduction in accidents. "

If passed, Senate Bill 304 would take effect on April 30, 1999 to coincide with the start of the construction season.

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