6/6/03-A bill designed to protect highway patrol and other emergency personnel during roadside stops has died.
Under HB252, drivers would have been required to maintain a safe distance and reduce speed when approaching an emergency vehicle parked by the road with their lights flashing.
The measure would have required drivers to merge into the furthest lane away from an emergency vehicle, if practical, with regard to safety and traffic conditions.
On two-lane highways, drivers must slow down to 20 mph below the speed limit before passing the emergency vehicle.
The proposal was in the House transportation committee when the regular session ended June 2.
A similar bill – SB193 – passed both chambers and has been sent to the governor.

3/3/03-Texas lawmakers are looking at a bill designed to protect highway patrol and other emergency personnel during roadside stops.
Under HB252, drivers would be required to maintain a safe distance and reduce speed when approaching an emergency vehicle parked by the road with their lights flashing.
The measure, authored by Rep. Dennis Bonnen, R-Angleton, requires drivers to merge into the furthest lane away from an emergency vehicle, if practical, with regard to safety and traffic conditions.
On two-lane highways, drivers must slow down to 20 mph below the speed limit before passing the emergency vehicle.
Violations of these provisions could result in fines up to $200.
It is in the House transportation committee. For bill status, call (512) 463-2182.