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‘Safety zones’ around pedestrian, school bus stop areas expanded
A bill to get cars to slow down around pedestrian and school bus stop areas has lapsed into law.
Rep. Vinnie Sablan’s (Ind-Saipan) House Vill 19-66, HS1 amends Commonwealth code to get vehicles to “proceed at a speed not greater than is reasonable and proper and in no event at a speed greater than 10 miles per hour,” in areas where a safety zone has been established or where traffic is controlled by a police officer or mechanical traffic signal, cross-walks, designated school bus stops, and school drop-off and pick-up zones when pedestrians are present.
The bill became law without Gov. Ralph DLG Torres’ signature, after a 40-day window to act on the bill passed. It is now Public Law 19-40.
Sablan says he is very happy the bill is now law.
The bill aims to protect pedestrians, he said, and especially children from speeding vehicles. It also expands the safety zone and the school zone speed limits to bus stops, and school drop off and pick up areas.
“We are seeing an increase of vehicles on our island as driving has become an attraction for tourists,” Sablan said. “It is imperative that we put in place safety measures on our roads to ensure the safety of our community and most especially our children.”
“There have been several recent incidents where school kids and pedestrians have been struck by vehicles and many close calls as well. I hope and I will ask the Department of Public Safety to ensure that the provisions of PL 19-40 are enforced.
“In addition to enforcement, I have asked the Department of Public Works to ensure that our school zone safety lights are operational to complement the enforcement of this law.”
