"Drew's Law"; allows counties and municipalities to establish, or request DOT to establish, 15 miles per hour speed limit in or near certain parks and to set increased penalty for violating speed limit.
Impact
If enacted, this bill would amend existing motor vehicle laws to incorporate stricter speed regulations around parks, thereby allowing for increased local control over road safety measures. The amendment modifies existing statutory provisions, allowing municipalities to impose higher penalties for violators of this specific speed limit. The intent is to deter speeding in areas where children are likely to be, contributing to improved public safety.
Summary
Senate Bill S440, also known as 'Drew's Law', proposes that counties and municipalities in New Jersey establish a speed limit of 15 miles per hour on roads located in or adjacent to parks. This initiative aims to enhance safety during times when children are present, particularly during park events or hours of operation when children are visible from the roadway. The bill also empowers the New Jersey Department of Transportation (DOT) to enact similar speed restrictions on state-controlled roads in these areas if requested by local authorities.
Contention
The bill is named in memory of Drew Keough, an 11-year-old who tragically lost his life due to a vehicular accident near a park. The emotional backdrop of this legislation may draw support from communities advocating for child safety, but it may also face scrutiny. Stakeholders may discuss the feasibility of enforcing such reduced speed limits, as well as the implications for traffic flow and law enforcement resources. The balance between safety and practicality in implementing these restrictions may fuel further debate.
An Act Concerning The Closure Of The Connecticut Juvenile Training School And The Transfer Of Juvenile Justice Programs And Services From The Department Of Children And Families To The Judicial Branch.
An Act Concerning The Recommendations Of The Juvenile Justice Policy And Oversight Committee And Concerning The Transfer Of Juvenile Services From The Department Of Children And Families To The Court Support Services Division Of The Judicial Branch.