School crossing zones; expands definition of zones to include areas surrounding schools, etc.
The amendments propose a maximum speed limit of 25 miles per hour in designated school crossing zones, clearly marked by appropriate signs. Moreover, local governing bodies are empowered to adjust these speed limits based on traffic studies, which introduces flexibility tailored to specific community needs. This legislation is aimed at reducing the risk of traffic incidents during high-traffic school hours, ultimately aiming to protect the safety of children.
House Bill 1072 expands the definition of 'school crossing zones' under ยง46.2-873 of the Code of Virginia. The bill includes not only traditional K-12 schools but also public and nonprofit private institutions of higher education, ensuring that areas surrounding these institutions are recognized as school crossing zones. This broadens the scope of existing regulations concerning speed limits in school zones, thus enhancing safety measures where children and students congregate.
Notable points of contention include the authority given to local governments in determining speed limits, which some believe could lead to inconsistencies and confusion among motorists. Critics may also argue that by expanding the definition and zones, the bill may impose additional restrictions on drivers, potentially impacting traffic flow around areas that include higher education institutions. The involvement of local governing bodies in setting speed limits also raises debates regarding accountability and the effectiveness of speed enforcement in these zones.