Iowa Senate Bill SF185

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/23
• Refer: 2/1/23

Caption

A bill for an act relating to the application of certain provisions regarding motor vehicles and law of the road to road workers.

Impact

The passage of SF185 would significantly influence the responsibilities and legal implications for road workers in Iowa. By setting standards for accountability, it establishes that road workers are subject to the law in scenarios where their actions could lead to accidents or injuries. This change not only reflects a shift towards enhanced safety on the roads but also aligns with the state’s broader goals of ensuring public safety during roadwork activities.

Summary

Senate File 185 (SF185) aims to amend the provisions related to motor vehicles and the law of the road specifically concerning road workers. Under current law, road workers and their equipment are generally not subject to certain traffic regulations while engaged in work on highways that are officially closed to traffic. However, SF185 redefines this exemption by making specific provisions of Code chapter 321 applicable to these workers. The bill clarifies that road workers can be held liable for negligence if they cause injury or damage while operating motor vehicles or equipment, thereby creating accountability in their operations.

Contention

While supporters of SF185 argue that it will promote safety and accountability among road workers, there may be concerns about the practical implications of holding workers liable in varied situations. Critics might raise issues regarding operational efficiency during road maintenance, suggesting that imposing stricter regulations could discourage timely roadwork or slow down maintenance efforts. The debate over accountability and public safety versus practical workforce management is likely to be a focal point during discussions surrounding this bill.