This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to establish a speed limit of fifteen miles per hour in licensed childcare zones, similar to existing regulations for school zones. It defines a childcare zone as the property of licensed childcare or Head Start programs, including the grounds and any adjacent streets or highways extending one hundred twenty-five feet from the property. The West Virginia Division of Highways is tasked with erecting signage to indicate the entry and exit points of these childcare zones. The bill also stipulates that the speed restriction does not apply to vehicles on controlled-access highways separated from the childcare property by a barrier approved by the Division of Highways.

Additionally, the bill introduces penalties for speeding violations in these zones. If a driver exceeds the speed limit by fifteen miles per hour or more in the presence of children, they may face fines ranging from $100 to $500 or possible jail time. If the required signage is not present at the time of the violation, the fine is reduced to a maximum of $25. The bill aims to enhance the safety of children in childcare settings by enforcing speed limits similar to those in school zones.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 17C-6-1