RI
Rhode Island Senate Bill S0570

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S0570

Introduced
2/26/25  

Caption

Establishes a speed limit for school buses being driven on a limited access highway to ten miles per hour (10mph) less than the posted speed limit.

Impact

The implementation of S0570 may necessitate adjustments in how school districts manage transportation schedules and driver training programs. Schools will need to educate bus drivers on the new speed regulations and ensure compliance to promote a safer travel environment for students. Additionally, this law may lead to targeted enforcement actions by law enforcement agencies to monitor speed adherence, thereby enhancing overall road safety. The effectiveness of this bill in reducing traffic-related incidents involving school buses may be closely monitored following its enactment.

Summary

Bill S0570 aims to enhance traffic safety by establishing a new speed limit for school buses on limited access highways. The bill specifies that no school bus should operate at a speed greater than ten miles per hour below the posted speed limit. This measure addresses concerns regarding the safety of school children while they are being transported and aims to reduce the risk of accidents associated with school buses on high-speed roadways. The introduction of such a bill reflects a proactive approach in ensuring the safety of young passengers during their commute to school.

Contention

While the bill is primarily focused on student safety, potential points of contention may arise surrounding its enforcement. Some stakeholders could argue that existing regulations might already be sufficient or express concerns about the ramifications of fining bus drivers for minor infractions. Others may propose that adjustments in route planning or operational logistics should be considered alongside the speed limit changes to maximize safety benefits. The dialogue surrounding these issues may shape future amendments to the legislation, ensuring that it serves its intended purpose without imposing excessive burdens on school transportation systems.

Latest S0570 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S2022

Establishes a speed limit for school buses being driven on a limited access highway to ten miles per hour (10mph) less than the posted speed limit.

RI H8119

Provides that low-speed vehicles may be operated on limited access highways, state highways, through highways and public highways or roadways provided the speed limit on the highways and roadways is no more than thirty-five miles per hour (35 m.p.h.).

RI S0416

School Bus Speed Limits

RI S2693

Includes "Kei cars" or "Kei trucks" as having restricted public highway use and those vehicles validly registered as of August 1, 2021, would not be denied renewal of that registration based solely on the vehicle type.

RI H8013

Includes "Kei cars" or "Kei trucks" as having restricted public highway use and those vehicles validly registered as of August 1, 2021, would not be denied renewal of that registration based solely on the vehicle type.

RI S0407

Operation Of Bicycles--highway Safety Act

RI H5577

Operation Of Bicycles--highway Safety Act

RI S0419

Definitions And General Code Provisions

RI H5457

Definitions And General Code Provisions

RI S2829

Defines 3 classes of electric bicycles, authorizes the DEM to determine allowable uses of electric bicycles at properties under the department's jurisdiction, allows Class 1 electric bicycles to legally access state bicycle trails or paths.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.