General Assembly Raised Bill No. 1375 aims to improve highway, pedestrian, and cyclist safety through various amendments to existing laws. Key provisions include the repeal of Section 14-300, which is replaced with new regulations emphasizing pedestrian right-of-way at crosswalks, requiring vehicle operators to yield to pedestrians. The bill also increases fines for violations from $500 to $750 and introduces specific requirements for crosswalk markings and signage. Other amendments include raising the minimum age for motorcycle operation from eighteen to twenty-one, clarifying protective headgear standards, and establishing new definitions related to mobile devices while driving, including prohibiting the use of hand-held mobile telephones for calls or texts while driving, with exceptions for emergencies.

Additionally, the bill addresses alcohol consumption in vehicles, mandating that municipalities receive 25% of fines for open container violations and prohibiting open alcoholic beverages in passenger areas of vehicles, with certain exceptions. It also establishes the Office of the State Traffic Administration to regulate traffic control signals and devices, and requires the use of retro-reflective paint for highway markings starting October 1, 2025. The bill introduces a retraining program for motor vehicle operators convicted of specific violations, and it includes a rebate program for electric bicycles aimed at supporting residents from environmental justice communities. Overall, Raised Bill No. 1375 seeks to enhance road safety, enforce stricter penalties for violations, and promote responsible driving behaviors.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 14-300, 14-230a, 14-289g, 14-296aa, 14-286d, 14-298, 14-111g