Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5514

Introduced
1/23/23  

Caption

Prohibiting drivers from making a right turn within proximity of certain facilities.

Impact

If enacted, SB5514 will result in changes to existing traffic laws, imposing restrictions that will require drivers to adjust their behavior around designated facilities. This amendment is expected to alter current traffic patterns and enhance safety measures. Law enforcement agencies will need to implement additional training and resources to ensure compliance and monitor these new regulations effectively.

Summary

Senate Bill 5514 seeks to enhance public safety by prohibiting drivers from making right turns within certain proximities of specific facilities. The bill targets high-traffic areas, particularly around locations such as schools, hospitals, and other sensitive establishments, with the intent to minimize accidents and ensure safer passage for pedestrians and cyclists. Proponents argue that establishing this regulatory measure will significantly reduce the likelihood of collisions in areas where vulnerable populations are present.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB5514 appears to be largely positive among safety advocates and community stakeholders. Supporters laud the bill for its potential to improve safety in areas heavily frequented by schoolchildren and patients. However, there are concerns among some drivers and transportation advocates who argue that the restrictions may lead to increased congestion or confusion at intersections where these prohibitions are enforced. Overall, the response is primarily supportive, viewing it as a progressive step toward safer roads.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB5514 include disagreements over the adequacy of signage and public awareness campaigns that would accompany the implementation of such regulations. Opponents express concerns regarding the practicality of enforcing these restrictions and the potential for accidents to still occur despite the prohibitions. Additionally, there are discussions around how these rules may disproportionately affect certain traffic routes, possibly leading to unintended consequences such as traffic diversion into less populated areas.

Companion Bills

WA HB1582

Crossfiled Prohibiting drivers from making a right turn within proximity of certain facilities.

Previously Filed As

WA HB1582

Prohibiting drivers from making a right turn within proximity of certain facilities.

WA SB5682

Concerning policing costs driven by proximity to state hospitals.

WA SB5286

Concerning policing costs driven by proximity to state hospitals.

WA SB5579

Prohibiting health carriers, facilities, and providers from making any public statements of any potential or planned contract terminations unless it satisfies a legal obligation.

WA SB5283

Prohibiting the energy facility site evaluation council from preempting local laws that forbid the siting of certain storage facilities in critical areas.

WA HB1859

Concerning the rights of residents in long-term care facilities.

WA SB5332

Prohibiting locating homeless encampments near schools and early learning facilities.

WA SB6128

Prohibiting the use of certain animals in traveling animal acts.

WA LB552

Prohibit public postsecondary educational institutions from having a diversity, equity, and inclusion office and taking certain actions relating to diversity, equity, and inclusion

WA HB1413

Prohibiting government purchases of opioid overdose reversal medications from certain entities.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.