4/25/07-A bill has died that was designed to protect police and other emergency personnel during roadside stops.
The Senate Judiciary Committee recommended the bill be held for further study.
Sponsored by Sen. John Tassoni Jr., D-Smithfield, SB23 would have required motorists to maintain a safe distance and reduce speed when approaching stationary emergency vehicles that are alongside the road with their lights flashing.
On highways with two or more lanes in one direction, drivers would have been required to merge into a lane further away from an emergency vehicle. Drivers also would have been required to reduce speed to 10 mph below the posted limit before passing the emergency vehicle.
Failure to obey the law would have resulted in a $75 fine.

2/26/07-A bill in the Senate Judiciary Committee is designed to protect police and other emergency personnel during roadside stops.
Sponsored by Sen. John Tassoni Jr., D-Smithfield, SB23, dubbed the "Move Over" bill, would require motorists to maintain a safe distance and reduce speed when approaching stationary emergency vehicles that are alongside the road with their lights flashing.
On highways with two or more lanes in one direction, drivers would be required to merge into a lane further away from an emergency vehicle. Drivers also would be required to reduce speed to 10 mph below the posted limit before passing the emergency vehicle.
Failure to obey the law would result in a $75 fine.
For bill status, call (401) 222-3580. In Rhode Island, call 1-800-547-8880.