Bill to increase public safety on roadways clears House with bipartisan support

State Reps. Jack Cera (D-Bellaire) and John M. Rogers (D-Mentor-on-the-Lake) today announced House Bill (HB) 58, legislation to encourage drivers to yield to sanitation and recycling vehicles, passed favorably out of the Ohio House with bipartisan support.

“By proactively expanding these safety measures, I believe we can better prevent accidents in our state while keeping workers and drivers safe,” said Cera. “There is a reason other states have adopted similar legislation following incidents causing the tragic loss of life. It makes sense to put this law in place to keep our roads safer.” 

Ohio law requires drivers proceed with caution when approaching a stationary public safety vehicle, emergency vehicle or road service vehicle with flashing lights. If possible – with regard to the road, weather, and traffic conditions – drivers are encouraged to change lanes before passing. House Bill 58 expands this provision to include sanitation and recycling vehicles. 

“Sanitation vehicles make frequent stops and are often in vulnerable positions on the side of the road. In these situations, drivers should slow down and, if possible, change lanes in order to provide a safe distance between themselves and others,” said Rogers. “Simply put, this bill is about improving safety for our sanitation workers and I am proud to have helped accomplish that.”

The bill now moves to the Senate for further consideration.