Current State Legislation

2/25/2016 (HB203):

The House Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee voted on Wednesday, Feb. 24, to advance a bill to revise the state’s keep right law to apply to all drivers.
Currently, vehicles traveling below the posted speed limit are required to stay to the right. HB203 would change the rule to include a blanket requirement on interstates for all vehicles, regardless of speed, to stay right except to pass.
Certain exceptions would apply.

3/28/2016 (SB180): 

The House Transportation, Utilities and Infrastructure Committee voted to advance a bill to ensure new revenues are applied to infrastructure. The Senate already approved it.
SB180 specifies that money raised via fuel tax rate increases continue to be routed to roads and bridges.
The bill awaits further consideration on the House floor. If approved there, it would head back to the Senate for approval of changes before it heads to the governor’s desk.

3/28/2016 (HB394):

The House Transportation, Utilities and Infrastructure Committee voted to advance a bill to raise the state’s fuel tax rates.
The state now charges 19 cents per gallon on diesel purchases and 18 cents on gas.
Sponsored by Rep. Mac McCutcheon, R-Huntsville, HB394 would increase the tax rates based on an average of the existing state rates in Florida, Georgia, Mississippi and Tennessee. Specifically, the tax rates in Alabama would increase by 6 cents per gallon to 25 cents and 24 cents respectively.
The bill would include adjustments in 2019, 2023 and 2027. The fuel tax rate increases would be based on the average of Alabama’s neighboring states.
Local governments would also be permitted to pursue local fuel tax rate increases of up to 2 cents per gallon, but only after a voter referendum.
Another provision in the bill would add a $100 surcharge for electric and alternative fuel passenger vehicles and $150 for equivalent commercial vehicles.
The bill awaits further consideration on the House floor. If approved there, it would move to the Senate before it could head to the governor’s desk.

3/28/2016 (HB394):

The House Transportation, Utilities and Infrastructure Committee voted to advance a bill to raise the state’s fuel tax rates.
The state now charges 19 cents per gallon on diesel purchases and 18 cents on gas.
Sponsored by Rep. Mac McCutcheon, R-Huntsville, HB394 would increase the tax rates based on an average of the existing state rates in Florida, Georgia, Mississippi and Tennessee. Specifically, the tax rates in Alabama would increase by 6 cents per gallon to 25 cents and 24 cents respectively.
The bill would include adjustments in 2019, 2023 and 2027. The fuel tax rate increases would be based on the average of Alabama’s neighboring states.
Local governments would also be permitted to pursue local fuel tax rate increases of up to 2 cents per gallon, but only after a voter referendum.
Another provision in the bill would add a $100 surcharge for electric and alternative fuel passenger vehicles and $150 for equivalent commercial vehicles.
The bill awaits further consideration on the House floor. If approved there, it would move to the Senate before it could head to the governor’s desk.

09/15/2015 (HB 28):

The House Transportation, Utilities and Infrastructure Committee voted to advance a bill that would increase the state’s tax rates for gas and diesel by 5 cents per gallon to 23 and 24 cents, respectively.
Alabama now charges 19 cents per gallon on diesel purchases and 18 cents on gas.
HB28 also authorizes the fuel tax to be increased by 2 cents per gallon each March.
The bill awaits further consideration on the House floor. If approved there, it would advance to the Senate before heading to the governor’s desk.
The changes would take effect Jan. 1, 2016.

11/20/2015

Talk continues in Alabama about a possible fuel tax increase to improve the state’s transportation infrastructure.
The Yellowhammer State now charges 19 cents per gallon on diesel purchases and 18 cents on gas. The tax rates have remained unchanged for more than 20 years.
A bill failed to gain passage earlier this year that sought to remove the state from the list of about a dozen states with fuel tax rates below 20 cents.
Rep. Mac McCutcheon, R-Huntsville, offered a bill that called for increasing the state’s tax rates by 5 cents per gallon to 24 and 23 cents, respectively. The bill also authorized the fuel tax to be increased by 2 cents per gallon each March.
McCutcheon’s bill was estimated to raise $70 million in the first year and $100 million by the second year.
The effort’s failure was attributed to intense negotiations to patch a $200 million state budget shortfall.
Fresh off his reelection early this month Gov. Robert Bentley said that he believes more lawmakers could give strong consideration to a fuel tax increase during the upcoming regular session.
At a recent speaking event in Gulf Shores, Ala., Bentley said he is in favor of a tax increase and that he believes residents around the state are willing to pay extra as long as they are assured the money will be used for better roads and bridges.
McCutcheon is expected to introduce a similar piece of legislation during the regular session that begins Feb. 2, 2016.

04/17/2014 (HB266):

A bill died that sought to nix changes to daylight saving time.
HB266 would have kept the state on standard time year round.

3/7/2014:

A bill in the House State Government Committee would nix changes to daylight saving time.
Sponsored by Rep. Greg Wren, R-Montgomery, HB266 would keep the state on standard time year round.

3/11/2014 (SB43):

The Senate Commerce, Transportation and Utilities Committee voted to advance a bill that would allow driver licensing agencies to waive the CDL skills test for qualified military veterans.
Sponsored by Sen. Tom Whatley, R-Auburn, SB43 would waive the skills portion of the test.

04/04/2014 (SB24): 

A bill died without getting a Senate floor vote that sought to give law enforcement in small towns the authority to ticket speeders on interstates.
Since 1996, Alabama law has prohibited police in cities with fewer than 19,000 residents from enforcing speed laws on interstate highways. The ban, which was attached to a bill boosting speeds to 70 mph, also applies to any land outside of city limits.
SB24 would have allowed police in affected towns to issue speeding tickets on interstate highways. Speed enforcement would have been allowed for all police departments on roads outside of city limits but within their jurisdictions.

2/18/2014:

The Senate Commerce, Transportation and Utilities Committee voted 6-1 to advance a bill that would give law enforcement in small towns the authority to ticket speeders on interstates.
Since 1996, Alabama law has prohibited police in cities with fewer than 19,000 residents from enforcing speed laws on interstate highways. The ban, which was attached to a bill boosting speeds to 70 mph, also applies to any land outside of city limits.
Sponsored by Sen. Gerald Dial, R-Lineville, SB24 would allow police in affected towns to issue speeding tickets on interstate highways. Speed enforcement would be allowed for all police departments on roads outside of city limits but within their jurisdictions.
The bill awaits consideration on the Senate floor. If approved there, it would move to the House.

10/29/2013:

Sen. Gerald Dial, R-Lineville, has prefiled a bill for consideration during the 2014 regular session that would give law enforcement in small towns the authority to ticket speeders on interstates.
Since 1996, Alabama law has prohibited police in cities with fewer than 19,000 residents from enforcing speed laws on interstate highways. The ban, which was attached to a bill boosting speeds to 70 mph, also applies to any land outside of city limits.
SB24 would allow police in affected towns to issue speeding tickets on interstate highways. Speed enforcement would be allowed for all police departments on roads outside of city limits but within their jurisdictions.
The bill will be in the Senate Commerce, Transportation and Utilities Committee when the regular session begins in early February.

6/13/2013 (HB25):

A bill died that sought to extend the state’s license renewal period.
State law now allows drivers to renew licenses up to 30 days before and until three years after the expiration date.
HB25 would have allowed Alabama drivers to renew their licenses as early as six months before the expiration date.

2/20/2013:

A bill in the House Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee would extend the state’s license renewal period.
State law now allows drivers to renew licenses up to 30 days before and until three years after the expiration date.
Sponsored by Rep. Joe Faust, R-Baldwin, HB25 would allow Alabama drivers to renew their licenses as early as six months before the expiration date.
For House bill status, call 334-242-7600. In Alabama, call 800-499-3052.

12/27/2012:

Rep. Joe Faust, R-Baldwin, has filed a bill for consideration during the upcoming session that would extend the state’s license renewal period.
State law now allows drivers to renew licenses up to 30 days before and until three years after the expiration date.
Sponsored by Rep. Joe Faust, R-Baldwin, HB25 would allow Alabama drivers to renew their licenses as early as six months before the expiration date.
The bill can be considered during the session that begins Feb. 5.

06/10/2013 (SB71):

A bill died that sought to give police in cities with fewer than 19,000 residents the authority to ticket speeders on interstates.
SB71 would also have allowed speed enforcement for all police departments on roads outside of city limits but within their jurisdictions.

2/15/2013:

The Senate Commerce, Transportation and Utilities Committee voted unanimously to advance a bill to give police in cities with fewer than 19,000 residents the authority to ticket speeders on interstates. The bill now awaits consideration on the Senate floor.
SB71 would also allow speed enforcement for all police departments on roads outside of city limits but within their jurisdictions.
For Senate bill status, call 334-242-7800. In Alabama, call 800-499-3051.

2/4/2013:

A bill in the Senate Commerce, Transportation and Utilities Committee would give police in cities with fewer than 19,000 residents the authority to ticket speeders on interstates.
SB71 would also allow speed enforcement for all police departments on roads outside of city limits but within their jurisdictions.
For Senate bill status, call 334-242-7800. In Alabama, call 800-499-3051.

05/24/2013 (SB26):

5/24/2013:

A bill died that sought to boost the punishment for anyone caught driving in the state without a license.
Alabama law now authorizes fines between $100 and $500 for anyone driving with a cancelled, denied, suspended or revoked driver’s license. Offenders also face up to six months in jail.
The same punishment is applied to anyone driving without first obtaining a driver’s license.
SB26 would have doubled the minimum fine amount for all offenders to $200. The license revocation period would have been extended for anyone found in violation for another six months.
In addition, illegal driving that result in a traffic accident would have made the offender negligent. As a result, they could have been responsible for paying restitution.

2/20/2013:

A bill in the Senate Commerce, Transportation and Utilities Committee would boost the punishment for anyone caught driving in the state without a license.
Alabama law now authorizes fines between $100 and $500 for anyone driving with a cancelled, denied, suspended or revoked driver’s license. Offenders also face up to six months in jail.
The same punishment is applied to anyone driving without first obtaining a driver’s license.
Sponsored by Sen. Cam Ward, R-Alabaster, SB26 would double the minimum fine amount for all offenders to $200. The license revocation period would be extended for anyone found in violation for another six months.
In addition, illegal driving that result in a traffic accident would make the offender negligent. As a result, they could be responsible for paying restitution.
For Senate bill status, call 3343-242-7800. In Alabama, call 800-499-3051.

12/17/2012:

Sen. Cam Ward, R-Alabaster, has filed a bill for consideration early next year to boost the punishment for anyone caught driving in the state without a license.
Alabama law now authorizes fines between $100 and $500 for anyone driving with a cancelled, denied, suspended or revoked driver’s license. Offenders also face up to six months in jail.
The same punishment is applied to anyone driving without first obtaining a driver’s license.
Sponsored by Sen. Cam Ward, R-Alabaster, SB26 would double the minimum fine amount for all offenders to $200. The license revocation period would be extended for anyone found in violation for another six months.
In addition, illegal driving that result in a traffic accident would make the offender negligent. As a result, they could be responsible for paying restitution.
The bill can be considered during the session that begins Feb. 5.

10/29/2013:

Sen. Gerald Dial, R-Lineville, has prefiled a bill for consideration during the 2014 regular session that would give law enforcement in small towns the authority to ticket speeders on interstates.
Since 1996, Alabama law has prohibited police in cities with fewer than 19,000 residents from enforcing speed laws on interstate highways. The ban, which was attached to a bill boosting speeds to 70 mph, also applies to any land outside of city limits.
SB23 would allow police in affected towns to issue speeding tickets on interstate highways. Speed enforcement would be allowed for all police departments on roads outside of city limits but within their jurisdictions.
The bill will be in the Senate Commerce, Transportation and Utilities Committee when the regular session begins in early February.

5/24/2012 (HB193):

A new law makes it easier for older drivers with personal licenses to qualify for a discount on their insurance premiums.
Alabama law already allows drivers at least 55 years old to take an accident prevention course and qualify for a rate reduction.
Previously HB193, the new law lowers from eight hours to six hours the amount of classroom time required. Online instruction will also be permitted.

5/16/2012 (SB250):

SB250 has died. However, the House version – HB193 – has moved to the governor.

3/22/2012 (HB193):

The House voted to advance a bill make it easier for older drivers with personal licenses to qualify for a discount on their insurance premiums. The bill now moves to the Senate.
Alabama law already allows drivers at least 55 years old to take an accident prevention course and qualify for a rate reduction.
HB193 would lower from eight hours to six hours the amount of classroom time required. Online instruction would also be permitted.
The bill is awaiting consideration in the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee.
For bill status, call 334-242-7600. In Alabama, call 800-499-3052.

2/23/2012 (SB250):

A bill awaiting consideration on the Senate floor would make it easier for older drivers with personal licenses to qualify for a discount on their insurance premiums.
Alabama law already allows drivers at least 55 years old to take an accident prevention course and qualify for a rate reduction.
SB250 would lower from eight hours to six hours the amount of classroom time required. Online instruction would also be permitted.
For Senate bill status, call 334-242-7800. In Alabama, call 800-499-3051.
A House version – HB193 – is also up for consideration on the Senate floor.

2/23/2012 (HB193):

A bill awaiting consideration on the House floor would make it easier for older drivers with personal licenses to qualify for a discount on their insurance premiums.
Alabama law already allows drivers at least 55 years old to take an accident prevention course and qualify for a rate reduction.
HB193 would lower from eight hours to six hours the amount of classroom time required. Online instruction would also be permitted.
For bill status, call 334-242-7600. In Alabama, call 800-499-3052.
A Senate version – SB250 – is up for consideration on the Senate floor

5/16/2012 (HB221):

A bill is likely dead for the year that was intended to ward off the implementation of a ticket program in his state. The city of Tuscaloosa is set to install red-light cameras in the months ahead.
HB221 would have prohibited municipalities from approving the use of cameras and would repeal any existing ordinances authorizing their use.

3/5/2012:

A bill in the House Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee is intended to ward off the implementation of a ticket program in his state. The city of Tuscaloosa is set to install red-light cameras in the months ahead.
Sponsored by Rep. Lynn Greer, R-Lauderdale, HB221 would prohibit municipalities from approving the use of cameras and would repeal any existing ordinances authorizing their use.
For House bill status, call 334-242-7600. In Alabama, call 800-499-3052.

2/13/2012:

A bill in the House Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee would prohibit communities from adopting use of red-light cameras.
Sponsored by Rep. Lynn Greer, R-Lauderdale, HB221 would also require localities with enforcement programs already in use to take them down.
For House bill status, call 334-242-7600. In Alabama, call 800-499-3052.

5/16/2012 (HB429):

A bill is likely dead for the year that sought to give law enforcement in small towns the authority to ticket speeders on interstates.
Since 1996, Alabama law has prohibited police in cities with fewer than 19,000 residents from enforcing speed laws on interstate highways. The ban was attached to a bill boosting speeds to 70 mph.
HB429 would have allowed police in affected towns to issue speeding tickets on interstate highways. The bill also would have allowed speed enforcement for all police departments on roads outside of city limits but within their jurisdictions.

5/16/2012 (SB8):

A bill is likely dead for the year that sought to give law enforcement in small towns the authority to ticket speeders on interstates. The House previously approved it.
Since 1996, Alabama law has prohibited police in cities with fewer than 19,000 residents from enforcing speed laws on interstate highways. The ban was attached to a bill boosting speeds to 70 mph.
SB8 allowed police in affected towns to issue speeding tickets on interstate highways. The bill also would have allowed speed enforcement for all police departments on roads outside of city limits but within their jurisdictions.

4/3/2012 (HB429):

A bill in the House Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee would give law enforcement in small towns the authority to ticket speeders on interstates.
Since 1996, Alabama law has prohibited police in cities with fewer than 19,000 residents from enforcing speed laws on interstate highways. The ban was attached to a bill boosting speeds to 70 mph.
HB429 would allow police in affected towns to issue speeding tickets on interstate highways. The bill also would allow speed enforcement for all police departments on roads outside of city limits but within their jurisdictions.
For House bill status, call 334-242-7600. In Alabama, call 800-499-3052

2/23/2012 (SB8):

The Senate voted 21-1 to advance a bill to the House that would give law enforcement in small towns the authority to ticket speeders on interstates.

Since 1996, Alabama law has prohibited police in cities with fewer than 19,000 residents from enforcing speed laws on interstate highways. The ban was attached to a bill boosting speeds to 70 mph.
SB8 allow police in affected towns to issue speeding tickets on interstate highways. The bill also would allow speed enforcement for all police departments on roads outside of city limits but within their jurisdictions.
The bill is awaiting consideration in the House Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee.
For bill status, call 334-242-7800. In Alabama, call 800-499-3051.

2/8/2012 (SB8):

A bill in the Senate Governmental Affairs Committee would give law enforcement in small towns the authority to ticket speeders on interstates.
Since 1996, Alabama law has prohibited police in cities with fewer than 19,000 residents from enforcing speed laws on interstate highways. The ban was attached to a bill boosting speeds to 70 mph.
Sponsored by Sen. Gerald Dial, R-Lineville, SB8 would authorize affected towns to issue speeding tickets on interstate highways. The bill also would allow speed enforcement for all police departments on roads outside of city limits but within their jurisdictions. For Senate bill status, call 334-242-7800. In Alabama, call 800-499-3051.

9/20/2011 (SB8):

Sen. Gerald Dial, R-Lineville, has prefiled a bill for consideration during the 2012 regular session that would give law enforcement in small towns the authority to ticket speeders on interstates.
Since 1996, Alabama law has prohibited police in cities with fewer than 19,000 residents from enforcing speed laws on interstate highways. The ban was attached to a bill boosting speeds to 70 mph.
SB8 would authorize affected towns to issue speeding tickets on interstate highways. The bill also would allow speed enforcement for all police departments on roads outside of city limits but within their jurisdictions.

5/23/2012 (HB575):

A new law gives the Russell County community of Phenix City the option to install automated cameras at intersections.
HB575 authorizes the city council to adopt an ordinance to use red-light cameras.

5/15/2012 (HB575):

A bill on the governor’s desk would give the Russell County community of Phenix City the option to install automated cameras at intersections.
HB575 would authorize the city council to adopt an ordinance to use red-light cameras.
For bill status, call 334-242-7600. In Alabama, call 800-499-3052.

5/16/2012 (HB548):

A bill is likely dead for the year that sought to give the town of Prichard in Mobile County authorization to post automated cameras to ticket drivers for running red lights.
HB548 would have authorized the city council to adopt an ordinance to use red-light cameras

5/15/2012 (SB534 & SB546):

A bill is likely dead for the year that sought to authorize the city of Irondale to post automated cameras to ticket drivers for running red lights.
SB534 would have authorized the city council to adopt an ordinance to use red-light cameras.

5/15/2012 (SB545):

A bill is likely dead for the year that sought to authorize the towns in Jefferson County to post automated cameras to ticket drivers for running red lights.
SB545 would have authorized city councils to adopt an ordinance to use red-light cameras.

5/1/2012 (HB575):

House lawmakers voted unanimously to advance a bill that would give the Russell County community of Phenix City the option to install automated cameras at intersections.
HB575 would authorize the city council to adopt an ordinance to use red-light cameras.
The bill now awaits Senate floor consideration.
For bill status, call 334-242-7600. In Alabama, call 800-499-3052.

5/1/2012 (SB534 & SB546):

Awaiting consideration on the Senate floor is a bill to authorize the city of Irondale to post automated cameras to ticket drivers for running red lights. If approved, it would advance to the House. SB534 would authorize the city council to adopt an ordinance to use red-light cameras.
For Senate bill status, call 334-242-7800. In Alabama, call 800-499-3051.

5/1/2012 (SB545):

Awaiting consideration on the Senate floor is a bill to authorize the towns in Jefferson County to post automated cameras to ticket drivers for running red lights. If approved, it would advance to the House. SB545 would authorize city councils to adopt an ordinance to use red-light cameras.
For Senate bill status, call 334-242-7800. In Alabama, call 800-499-3051.

5/1/2012 (HB548):

The town of Prichard in Mobile County could soon get authorization to post automated cameras to ticket drivers for running red lights. HB548 would authorize the city council to adopt an ordinance to use red-light cameras.
The bill remains in a House committee with the Legislature’s projected adjournment in mid May.
For House bill status, call 334-242-7600. In Alabama, call 800-499-3052.

5/16/2012 (SB185):

A bill is likely dead for the year that sought to use fuel tax revenue for “vegetation management” along county roads.
Alabama law now routes 4 cents of the state’s fuel tax collected for state and local road and bridge work.
SB185 would have authorized using the 4-cent excise tax to control overgrowth and weeds on the rights-of-way of county roads.

4/16/2012:

The Senate voted unanimously to advance a bill to the House that would use fuel tax revenue for “vegetation management” along county roads.
Alabama law now routes 4 cents of the state’s fuel tax collected for state and local road and bridge work.
SB185 would authorize using the 4-cent excise tax to control overgrowth and weeds on the rights-of-way of county roads.
The bill is in the House Ways and Means General Fund Committee.
For bill status, call 334-242-7800. In Alabama, call 800-499-3051.

3/13/2012:

Awaiting consideration on the Senate floor is a bill that would use fuel tax revenue for “vegetation management” along county roads.
Alabama law now routes 4 cents of the state’s fuel tax collected for state and local road and bridge work.
SB185 would authorize using the 4-cent excise tax to control overgrowth and weeds on the rights-of-way of county roads.
For Senate bill status, call 334-242-7800. In Alabama, call 800-499-3051.

5/23/2012 (SB80):

A new law tweaks the state’s “move over” law.
Alabama law already requires travelers to make way for vehicles, typically emergency personnel, during roadside stops. Violators face $25 fines.
SB80 adds utility service vehicles to the protected list.

5/16/2012 (HB76):

HB76 is likely dead. However, the Senate version – SB80 – is now law.

3/27/2012 (HB76):

The Senate Governmental Affairs Committee voted unanimously to advance a bill to tweak the state’s Move Over law.
State law requires travelers to make way for vehicles, typically emergency personnel, during roadside stops.
HB76 would add utility service vehicles to the protected list.
The bill is awaiting consideration on the Senate floor. If approved there, it would move to the governor’s desk. House lawmakers already approved it.
For bill status, call 334-242-7600. In Alabama, call 800-499-3052.

3/1/2012 (HB76):

The House voted to advance a bill that would tweak the state’s Move Over law. It now moves to the Senate.
State law requires travelers to make way for vehicles, typically emergency personnel, during roadside stops.
HB76 would add utility service vehicles to the protected list.
The bill is awaiting consideration in the Senate Governmental Affairs Committee.
For bill status, call 334-242-7600. In Alabama, call 800-499-3052.

2/23/2012 (SB80):

A bill awaiting consideration on the House floor would tweak the state’s “move over” law. The Senate already approved it. Alabama law requires travelers to make way for vehicles, typically emergency personnel, during roadside stops. Violators face $25 fines.
SB80 would add utility service vehicles to the protected list.
For bill status, call 334-242-7800. In Alabama, call 800-499-3051.

2/8/2012 (SB80):

A bill in the Senate Commerce, Transportation and Utilities Committee would tweak the state’s Move Over law.
State law requires travelers to make way for vehicles, typically emergency personnel, during roadside stops.
Sponsored by Sen. Dick Brewbaker, R-Montgomery, SB80 would add utility service vehicles to the protected list.
For Senate bill status, call 334-242-7800. In Alabama, call 800-499-3051.

12/27/2011 (SB80):

Sen. Dick Brewbaker, R-Montgomery, has prefiled a bill for consideration during the upcoming session that would tweak the state’s Move Over law.
State law requires travelers to make way for vehicles, typically emergency personnel, during roadside stops.
SB80 would add utility service vehicles to the protected list.
The bill is awaiting assignment to committee for the session that begins Feb. 7.
For Senate bill status, call 334-242-7800. In Alabama, call 800-499-3051.

5/8/2012 (HB2):

Gov. Robert Bentley signed into law Tuesday, May 8, a bill to prohibit sending text messages, instant messages and emails while driving. It takes effect Aug. 1.
Previously HB2, the new law also authorizes primary enforcement. Offenders would face $25 fines. Subsequent offenses would result in escalating fines. In addition, two penalty points would be added to offenders’ licenses for each violation.

2/23/2012:

A bill awaiting consideration on the Senate floor would prohibit all drivers from text messaging while behind the wheel. The House already approved it.
Currently, only the state’s youngest drivers are forbidden from engaging in the distracting activity.
HB2 would authorize police to pull drivers over solely for texting. Fines would start at $25 and two points would be added to licenses.
For bill status, call 334-242-7600. In Alabama, call 800-499-3052.

2/7/2012:

A bill in the House Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee would prohibit all drivers from text messaging while behind the wheel.
Currently, only the state’s youngest drivers are forbidden from engaging in the distracting activity.
Sponsored by Rep. Jim McClendon, R-Springville, HB2 would authorize police to pull drivers over solely for texting. Fines would start at $25.
For House bill status, call 334-242-7600. In Alabama, call 800-499-3052.

9/20/2011:

Rep. Jim McClendon, R-Springville, has prefiled a bill for consideration during the upcoming session that would prohibit all drivers from text messaging while behind the wheel.
Currently, only the state’s youngest drivers are forbidden from engaging in the distracting activity.
HB2 would authorize police to pull drivers over solely for texting. Fines would start at $25.
The bill can be considered during the session that starts Feb. 7.
For House bill status, call 334-242-7600. In Alabama, call 800-499-3052.

5/16/2012 (SB219):

SB219 has died. However, the House version – HB339 – now is law.

5/14/2012 (HB339):

Gov. Robert Bentley has signed into law a bill to do away with indemnification clauses in trucking contracts. The clauses are set up to protect shippers or hold them harmless from anything that happens with a shipment. Previously HB339, the new law outlaws the provisions in contracts that provide for shippers to be indemnified for losses caused by their own negligence and make them “void and unenforceable.” It took effect immediately.
Affected contracts in the Alabama bill are defined as “a bill of lading, contract, agreement, or other understanding” between a motor carrier and a shipper covering the transportation of property for hire by the motor carrier, entry on property to load, unload or transport property, including the storage of property.
The protection does not apply to intermodal chassis, containers, or other intermodal equipment.

5/2/2012 (HB339):

The Senate voted unanimously to advance a House-approved bill to Gov. Robert Bentley’s desk to outlaw an unfair provision attached to certain trucking contracts.
HB339 would do away with indemnification clauses in trucking contracts. The clauses are set up to protect shippers or hold them harmless from anything that happens with a shipment.
The bill would prohibit provisions in motor carrier contracts that provide for shippers to be indemnified for losses caused by their own negligence and make them “void and unenforceable.”
Affected contracts are defined as “a contract, agreement, or other understanding” between a motor carrier and a shipper covering the transportation of property for hire by the motor carrier, entry on property to load, unload or incidental services, including the storage of property.
The protection would not apply to intermodal chassis, containers, or other intermodal equipment.

4/16/2012 (HB339):

The Senate Judiciary Committee voted 7-3 to advance a bill to outlaw an unfair provision attached to certain trucking contracts.
HB339 now moves to the Senate floor for further consideration. If approved there, it would advance to the governor’s desk. House lawmakers already approved it.
The bill would do away with indemnification clauses in trucking contracts. The clauses are set up to protect shippers or hold them harmless from anything that happens with a shipment.
The bill would prohibit provisions in motor carrier contracts that provide for shippers to be indemnified for losses caused by their own negligence and make them “void and unenforceable.”
Affected contracts are defined as “a contract, agreement, or other understanding” between a motor carrier and a shipper covering the transportation of property for hire by the motor carrier, entry on property to load, unload or incidental services, including the storage of property.
The protection would not apply to intermodal chassis, containers, or other intermodal equipment.
For bill status, call 334-242-7600. In Alabama, call 800-499-3052.

4/10/2012 (HB339):

House lawmakers voted 69-12 to advance a bill to outlaw an unfair provision attached to certain trucking contracts. It now moves to the Senate.
HB339 is intended to improve fairness for truck drivers doing business in the state.
The bill would do away with indemnification clauses in trucking contracts. The clauses are set up to protect shippers or hold them harmless from anything that happens with a shipment.
The bill would prohibit provisions in motor carrier contracts that provide for shippers to be indemnified for losses caused by their own negligence and make them “void and unenforceable.”
Affected contracts are defined as “a contract, agreement, or other understanding” between a motor carrier and a shipper covering the transportation of property for hire by the motor carrier, entry on property to load, unload or incidental services, including the storage of property.
The protection would not apply to intermodal chassis, containers, or other intermodal equipment.
The bill is awaiting consideration in the Senate Judiciary Committee.
For bill status, call 334-242-7600. In Alabama, call 800-499-3052.

3/27/2012 (HB339):

The House Transportation, Utilities and Infrastructure Committee voted to advance a bill to outlaw an unfair provision attached to certain trucking contracts.
Sponsored by Rep. Ronald Johnson, R-Sylacauga, HB339 is intended to improve fairness for truck drivers doing business in the state.
The bill would do away with indemnification clauses in trucking contracts. The clauses are set up to protect shippers or hold them harmless from anything that happens with a shipment.
The bill would prohibit provisions in motor carrier contracts that provide for shippers to be indemnified for losses caused by their own negligence and make them “void and unenforceable.”
Affected contracts are defined as “a contract, agreement, or other understanding” between a motor carrier and a shipper covering the transportation of property for hire by the motor carrier, entry on property to load, unload or incidental services, including the storage of property.
The protection would not apply to intermodal chassis, containers, or other intermodal equipment.
The bill is awaiting consideration on the House floor.
For House bill status, call 334-242-7600. In Alabama, call 800-499-3052.

3/13/2012 (HB339):

A bill in the House Transportation, Utilities and Infrastructure Committee would outlaw an unfair provision attached to certain trucking contracts.
Sponsored by Rep. Ronald Johnson, R-Sylacauga, HB339 is intended to improve fairness for truck drivers doing business in the state.
The bill would do away with indemnification clauses in trucking contracts. The clauses are set up to protect shippers or hold them harmless from anything that happens with a shipment.
The bill would prohibit provisions in motor carrier contracts that provide for shippers to be indemnified for losses caused by their own negligence and make them “void and unenforceable.”
Affected contracts are defined as “a contract, agreement, or other understanding” between a motor carrier and a shipper covering the transportation of property for hire by the motor carrier, entry on property to load, unload or incidental services, including the storage of property.
The protection would not apply to intermodal chassis, containers, or other intermodal equipment.
For House bill status, call 334-242-7600. In Alabama, call 800-499-3052.
The Senate version – SB219 – is in the Senate Judiciary Committee.

3/13/2012 (SB219):

A bill in the Senate Judiciary Committee would outlaw an unfair provision attached to certain trucking contracts.
Sponsored by Sen. Gerald Dial, R-Lineville, SB219 would do away with indemnification clauses in trucking contracts. The clauses are set up to protect shippers or hold them harmless from anything that happens with a shipment.
The Alabama bill would prohibit provisions in motor carrier contracts that provide for shippers to be indemnified for losses caused by their own negligence and make them “void and unenforceable.”
Affected contracts are defined as “a contract, agreement, or other understanding” between a motor carrier and a shipper covering the transportation of property for hire by the motor carrier, entry on property to load, unload or incidental services, including the storage of property.
The protection would not apply to intermodal chassis, containers, or other intermodal equipment.
For Senate bill status, call 334-242-7800. In Alabama, call 800-499-3051.
The House version – HB339 – is in the House Transportation, Utilities and Infrastructure Committee.

5/16/2012 (SB339):

A bill is likely dead for the year that sought to authorize the Alabama Highway Authority to borrow up to $650 million in the next year by selling bonds. The money would have been used to repair or replace roads and bridges.
SB339 sought to create a five-member council to sign off on allocation of the money, including the state transportation director.
State law now leaves decisions on construction priorities up to the state transportation department, whose director is appointed by the governor.
The bill would have used a portion of the state’s 19-cent-per-gallon diesel tax – 13 cents – to pay for the bonds. Up to $32.5 million would have been allocated for individual counties. Three-quarters of a county’s portion would have been tied to bridge projects.

4/27/2012:

A bill in the House Transportation, Utilities and Infrastructure Committee would authorize the Alabama Highway Authority to borrow up to $650 million in the next year by selling bonds. The money would be used to repair or replace roads and bridges. Sponsored by Sen. Paul Bussman, R-Cullman, SB339 has already passed the Senate.
The bill would create a five-member council to sign off on allocation of the money, including the state transportation director.
State law now leaves decisions on construction priorities up to the state transportation department, whose director is appointed by the governor.
The bill would use a portion of the state’s 19-cent-per-gallon diesel tax – 13 cents – to pay for the bonds. Up to $32.5 million would be allocated for individual counties. Three-quarters of a county’s portion would be tied to bridge projects.
For bill status, call 334-242-7800. In Alabama, call 800-499-3051.

4/17/2012 (SB339):

The Senate voted unanimously to advance to the House a bill that would authorize the Alabama Highway Authority to borrow up to $650 million in the next year by selling bonds. The money would be used to repair or replace roads and bridges.
Sponsored by Sen. Paul Bussman, R-Cullman, SB339 would create a five-member council to sign off on allocation of the money, including the state transportation director.
State law now leaves decisions on construction priorities up to the state transportation department, whose director is appointed by the governor.
The bill would use a portion of the state’s 19-cent-per-gallon diesel tax – 13 cents – to pay for the bonds. Up to $32.5 million would be allocated for individual counties. Three-quarters of a county’s portion would be tied to bridge projects.
The bill is awaiting assignment to committee in the House.
For bill status, call 334-242-7800. In Alabama, call 800-499-3051.

1/12/2012:

Gov. Robert Bentley spoke this week on transportation funding for his state. He announced plans to borrow up to $2 billion for road and bridge repairs, if voters approve.
In November 2010, voters rejected a plan to reroute about $1 billion from the Alabama Trust Fund to pay off bonds for road and bridge improvements. The state savings account contains money from natural gas wells drilled in state-owned waters along the coastline.
Bentley also told assembled media in Birmingham that the state Department of Transportation is pursuing plans to build toll roads in south Alabama. He said there are no plans to pursue charging users to use existing roads.
State lawmakers can work on specifics of the governor’s plan, and any other transportation bills, during the session that begins Feb. 7.

7/7/2011 (HB102):

A bill has died without getting a Senate floor vote that sought to prohibit all drivers from sending text messages while driving. The state’s youngest drivers already are forbidden from engaging in the distracting activity.
The House-approved bill – HB102 – called for making violations a primary offense, which would authorize police to pull over drivers solely for texting. Fines would have started at $25.

4/28/2011:

The Senate Judiciary Committee voted unanimously to advance a bill to the Senate floor that would prohibit all drivers from sending text messages while driving. The state’s youngest drivers already are forbidden from engaging in the distracting activity.
HB102 would make violations a primary offense, which would authorize police to pull over drivers solely for texting. Fines would start at $25.
If approved by the full Senate, it would move to the governor’s desk. The House already approved it.
For bill status, call 334-242-7600. In Alabama, call 800-499-3052.

4/13/2011:

The House voted 86-2 to advance a bill to Senate that would prohibit all drivers from sending text messages while driving. The state’s youngest drivers already are forbidden from engaging in the distracting activity.
HB102 would make violations a primary offense, which would authorize police to pull over drivers solely for texting. Fines would start at $25.
The bill is in the Senate Judiciary Committee.
For bill status, call 334-242-7600. In Alabama, call 800-499-3052.

3/17/2011:

A bill awaiting consideration on the House floor would prohibit all drivers from sending text messages while driving. Currently, only the state’s youngest drivers are forbidden from engaging in the distracting activity.
HB102 would also outlaw inputting data into global positioning or navigation devices.
Violations would be a primary offense, which would authorize police to pull over drivers solely for texting. Fines would start at $25.
For House bill status, call 334-242-7600. In Alabama, call 800-499-3052.

7/7/2011 (SB19):

A bill died in committee that sought to give law enforcement in small towns the authority to ticket speeders on interstates.
Since 1996, Alabama law has prohibited police in cities with fewer than 19,000 residents from enforcing speed laws on interstate highways. The ban was attached to a bill boosting speeds to 70 mph.
SB19 would have allowed police in affected towns to issue speeding tickets on interstate highways.

6/7/2011 (SB33):

A bill has died that sought to give law enforcement in small towns the authority to ticket speeders on interstates.
Since 1996, Alabama law has prohibited police in cities with fewer than 19,000 residents from enforcing speed laws on interstate highways. The ban was attached to a bill boosting speeds to 70 mph.
SB33 would have allowed police in affected towns to issue speeding tickets on interstate highways. Speed enforcement would also have been allowed for all police departments on roads outside of city limits but within their jurisdictions.

3/17/2011 (SB19):

A bill in the Senate Highways, Roads and Bridges Committee would give law enforcement in small towns the authority to ticket speeders on interstates.
Since 1996, Alabama law has prohibited police in cities with fewer than 19,000 residents from enforcing speed laws on interstate highways. The ban was attached to a bill boosting speeds to 70 mph.
Sponsored by Sen. Cam Ward, R-Alabaster, SB19 would allow police in affected towns to issue speeding tickets on interstate highways.
For Senate bill status, call 334-242-7800. In Alabama, call 800-499-3051.

6/7/2011 (SB356):

Gov. Robert Bentley signed into law a bill to allow the city of Montgomery to use cameras to enforce speeding in certain areas. The devices can be posted inside marked police vehicles.
Previously SB356, the new law permits the city to use cameras to enforce speeding in construction zones, near schools and in neighborhoods. Fines could be as much as $100.

9/20/2011:

An Alabama state lawmaker has renewed his effort to give law enforcement in small towns the authority to ticket speeders on interstates. A separate effort is intended to reduce driver distractions.
Since 1996, Alabama law has prohibited police in cities with fewer than 19,000 residents from enforcing speed laws on interstate highways. The ban was attached to a bill boosting speeds to 70 mph.
Sen. Gerald Dial, R-Lineville, has prefiled a bill for consideration during the 2012 regular session that would allow police in affected towns to issue speeding tickets on interstate highways.
The bill – SB8 – also would allow speed enforcement for all police departments on roads outside of city limits but within their jurisdictions.
Dial pursued the authorization during the 2011 regular session, but it did not get a vote on the Senate floor after advancing from committee.
Another bill would prohibit all drivers from text messaging while behind the wheel. Currently, only the state’s youngest drivers are forbidden from engaging in the distracting activity.
HB2 would authorize police to pull drivers over solely for texting. Fines would start at $25.
The bills can be considered during the session that starts in February 2012.

4/28/2010 (SB2):

A bill has died that sought to propose an amendment to the Alabama Constitution to provide for an eight year road and bridge construction program to be funded with appropriations from the Alabama Trust Fund.
Sponsored by Sen. Steve French, R-Birmingham, SB2 remained in the Senate Finance and Taxation-General Fund Committee when the session ended, effectively killing it for the year.
The bill also would have provided funds for Redstone Arsenal and the Coastal Insurance Program Fund, which was created in this amendment.

4/27/2010 (SB121):

The Legislature has given the go-ahead to put before voters a question about spending $1 billion on road and bridge projects throughout the state.
The House voted 86-13 to agree on changes to the bill, which would reroute money from a state savings account for roads and bridges. Senators followed suit on a 25-8 vote. Because it is a proposed amendment to the Alabama Constitution, voters will get the final say on the general election ballot Nov. 2.
SB121 seeks to remove $100 million annually for 10 years from the Alabama Trust Fund. The fund has about $2.6 billion accumulated from natural gas wells drilled in state-owned waters along the Alabama coast..
The state would divide $25 million annually among its 67 counties and their cities for road and bridge work. Another $75 million each year would be routed to the Alabama Department of Transportation.
The current balance of the trust fund is $2.5 billion. A provision in the bill calls for annual withdrawals to end if the balance dipped below $2 billion.

4/7/2010 (SB121):

A bill in the House Government Appropriations Committee would reroute money from a state savings account for roads and bridges. Because it is a proposed amendment to the Alabama Constitution, voters would get the final say as early as this November. The Senate has already approved it.
SB121 would remove $100 million annually for 10 years from the Alabama Trust Fund. The fund has about $2.6 billion accumulated from natural gas wells drilled in state-owned waters along the Alabama coast.
The state would divide $25 million annually among its 67 counties and their cities for road and bridge work. Another $75 million each year would be routed to the Alabama Department of Transportation.
The current balance of the trust fund is $2.5 billion. A provision added to the bill calls for annual withdrawals to end if the balance dipped below $2 billion.
For bill status, call 334-242-7800. In Alabama, call 800-499-3051.

3/12/2010 (SB121):

The Senate voted 25-10 Thursday, March 11, to forward a bill to the House that would reroute money from a state savings account for roads and bridges. Because it is a proposed amendment to the Alabama Constitution, voters would get the final say as early as this November.
SB121 would remove $100 million annually for 10 years from the Alabama Trust Fund. The fund has about $2.6 billion accumulated from natural gas wells drilled in state-owned waters along the Alabama coast.
The state would divide $25 million annually among its 67 counties and their cities for road and bridge work. Another $75 million each year would be routed to the Alabama Department of Transportation.
The current balance of the trust fund is $2.5 billion. A provision added to the bill calls for annual withdrawals to end if the balance dipped below $2 billion.
For bill status, call 334-242-7800. In Alabama, call 800-499-3051.

1/29/2010 (SB2):

A bill in the Senate Finance and Taxation-General Fund Committee would propose an amendment to the Alabama Constitution to provide for an eight year road and bridge construction program to be funded with appropriations from the Alabama Trust Fund and to provide for funds for Redstone Arsenal and the Coastal Insurance Program Fund which is created in this amendment.
SB2 is sponsored by Sen. Steve French, R-Birmingham.
For Senate bill status, call 334-242-7800. In Alabama, call 800-499-3051.

1/25/2010 (SB121):

The Senate Finance and Taxation-General Fund Committee has forwarded a bill to the full Senate that would reroute money from a state savings account for roads and bridges throughout the state.
Sponsored by Sen. Lowell Barron, D-Fyffe, SB121 would remove $100 million annually for 10 years from the Alabama Trust Fund. The fund has about $2.6 billion accumulated from natural gas wells drilled in state-owned waters along the Alabama coast.
The state would divide $25 million annually among its 67 counties and their cities for road and bridge work. Another $75 million each year would be routed to the Alabama Department of Transportation.
To become law, voters would have to sign off on it Nov. 2. If approved, the money would be allocated in 2011.
For Senate bill status, call 334-242-7800. In Alabama, call 800-499-3051.

10/27/2009 (SB2):

Sen. Steve French, R-Birmingham, has prefiled a bill – SB2 – for the 2010 regular session that would propose an amendment to the Alabama Constitution to provide for an eight year road and bridge construction program to be funded with appropriations from the Alabama Trust Fund and to provide for funds for Redstone Arsenal and the Coastal Insurance Program Fund which is created in this amendment.
For Senate bill status, call 334-242-7800. In Alabama, call 800-499-3051.

5/13/2010 (SB288):

Gov. Bob Riley signed a bill into law on the final day of the legislative session to increase the maximum gross vehicle, axle weight limits for large trucks equipped with idle reduction technology. Trucks equipped with auxiliary power units are now authorized to weigh up to an additional 400 pounds.
Previously SB288, the new law takes effect took effect immediately.

4/28/2010 (HB127):

A bill has died that sought to increase the maximum gross vehicle, axle weight limits for large trucks equipped with idle reduction technology. Trucks equipped with auxiliary power units would still have been authorized to weigh up to an additional 400 pounds.
HB127 didn’t come up for a vote before the full Senate before the session ended, effectively killing it for the year. The House previously approved it.

3/8/2010 (HB127):

The Senate Judiciary Committee unanimously approved a bill that would increase the maximum gross vehicle, axle weight limits for large trucks equipped with idle reduction technology. Trucks equipped with auxiliary power units would be authorized to weigh up to an additional 400 pounds.
HB127 now moves to the full Senate for consideration. If approved there, it would advance to Gov. Bob Riley’s desk. House lawmakers have already endorsed it by unanimous consent.
For bill status, call 334-242-7600. In Alabama, call 800-499-3052.

1/21/2010 (HB127):

The House unanimously approved a bill that would increase the maximum gross vehicle, axle weight limits for large trucks equipped with idle reduction technology. Trucks equipped with auxiliary power units would be authorized to weigh up to an additional 400 pounds.
HB127 has moved to the Senate Judiciary Committee.
For bill status, call 334-242-7600. In Alabama, call 800-499-3052.

7/1/2010 (HB566):

A new law allows the city of Tuscaloosa to install automatic cameras at intersections to photograph the license plates of red-light violators.
Previously HB566, the new law gives the city council authority to adopt rules for installing and operating cameras at intersections controlled by traffic lights. Cameras will photograph the license tags only.

6/18/2010 (HB306):

Gov. Bob Riley has signed a bill into law prohibiting communities from charging a fee when police and fire personnel respond to vehicle accidents.
Previously HB306, the new law forbids the levying of fees for the response of vehicle accidents by law enforcement. It took effect immediately.
Officers or any entity cannot charge a “first responders” fee on drivers, owners of vehicles or insurance providers. The ban does not affect volunteer fire departments or rescue squads.

4/28/2010:

A bill on its way to Gov. Bob Riley’s desk would prohibit communities from charging a fee when police and fire personnel respond to vehicle accidents.
The Senate unanimously approved the bill to outlaw levying fees for the response of vehicle accidents by law enforcement. The vote cleared the way for the bill to move to the governor. House lawmakers have already endorsed the measure by unanimous consent.
HB306 would forbid a law enforcement agency, officer or any entity from charging a “first responders” fee on drivers, owners of vehicles or insurance providers. The ban would not affect volunteer fire departments or rescue squads.
For bill status, call 334-242-7600. In Alabama, call 800-499-3052.

12/21/2009:

Sen. Lowell Barron, D-Fyffe, is leading the charge among members of the Senate Democratic Caucus for a proposed amendment to the Alabama Constitution that would reroute money from a state savings account for roads and bridges.
Barron is pursuing the removal of $100 million annually for 10 years from the Alabama Trust Fund. The fund has about $2.6 billion accumulated from natural gas wells drilled in state-owned waters along the Alabama coast.
The state would divide $25 million annually among its 67 counties and their cities for road and bridge work. Another $75 million each year would be routed to the Alabama Department of Transportation.
To become law, voters would make the final decision on the matter in November 2010. If approved, the money would be allocated in 2011.

3/1/2016 (HB249):

The House Transportation Committee voted to advance a bill to double the 8-cent-per-gallon fuel tax rate to 16 cents.
HB249 now moves to the House Finance Committee.
The Senate version, SB132, is in the Senate Finance Committee.

3/1/2016 (SB132):

The Senate Transportation Committee has voted to advance a bill to double the 8-cent-per-gallon fuel tax rate to 16 cents.
A change made to SB132 in committee would make the rate hike contingent on the price of oil remaining below $85 per barrel. Regardless, the rate would revert to the current level on July 1, 2018.
The motor fuel rate hike would raise an estimated $32 million per year. Fuel tax revenue would continue to be routed to the state’s general fund.
The bill now moves to the Senate Finance Committee.
The House version, HB249, is in the House Finance Committee.

2/2/2016 (HB249):

A bill in the House Transportation Committee would raise the state’s fuel tax rate.
HB249 would double the existing 8-cent-per-gallon rate by 16 cents.
The Senate version, SB132, is in the Senate Transportation Committee.

2/2/2016 (SB132):

A bill in the Senate Transportation Committee would raise the state’s fuel tax rate.
SB132 would double the existing 8-cent-per-gallon rate by 16 cents.
The House version, HB249, is in the House Transportation Committee.

5/1/2015 (HB64):

A bill died that sought to change the state’s observance of daylight saving time. HB64 permitted the state to stay on standard time year-round. It would have taken effect in 2017.

5/1/2015 (SB6):

A bill died that sought to change the state’s observance of daylight saving time. SB6 called for permitting the state to stay on standard time year-round. It would have taken effect in 2017.

5/1/2015 (SB11):

A bill died that sought to change the state’s observance of daylight saving time. SB11 called for permitting the state to stay on standard time year-round. It would have taken effect in 2016.

2/27/2015 (HB64):

A bill in the House State Affairs Committee would change the state’s observance of daylight saving time.
Sponsored by Rep. Mike Hawker, R-Anchorage, HB64 would permit the state to stay on standard time year-round. It would take effect in 2017.

2/27/2015 (SB6):

A bill in the Senate Finance Committee would change the state’s observance of daylight saving time.
Sponsored by Sen. Anna MacKinnon, R-Eagle River, SB6 would permit the state to stay on standard time year-round. It would take effect in 2017.

2/27/2015 (SB11):

A bill in the Senate State Affairs Committee would change the state’s observance of daylight saving time.
Sponsored by Sen. Bill Wielechowski, D-Anchorage, SB11 would permit the state to stay on standard time year-round. It would take effect in 2016.

5/24/2012 (HB255):

A new law clarifies the state’s existing text messaging ban. Previously, the state law didn’t specifically mention texting. HB255 adds wording that is intended to nix any potential court challenges.
The change took effect immediately.

4/12/2012:

A bill halfway through the Legislature would make a clarification to the state’s existing ban on texting while driving, which doesn’t specifically mention texting.
HB255 would add wording that is intended to nix any potential court challenges.
For bill status, call 907-465-4648.

4/24/2012 (HJR4):

An effort has died that sought to amend the Alaska Constitution to create a dedicated transportation fund.
The effort – House Joint Resolution 4 – would have given voters the final say on the issue during the upcoming November election.

4/5/2012:

The Senate Transportation Committee voted Tuesday, April 3, to advance legislation to amend the Alaska Constitution to create a dedicated transportation fund.
The effort – House Joint Resolution 4 – must clear the Senate Finance Committee before it can go before the full Senate. If approved there by a two-thirds margin, it would head to the governor. House lawmakers already approved the measure on a 27-9 vote.
Voters would get the final say on the issue during the upcoming November election because HJR4 would require the state’s constitution to be changed.
The fund would rely on a one-time $1 billion appropriation that must be approved in separate legislation. Also routed to the fund would be half of the transportation related fees such as Department of Motor Vehicle collections and fuel tax revenue.
For bill status, call 907-746-4648.

1/5/2015 (HB2014):

Rep. Phil Lovas, R-Peoria, withdrew a bill from consideration. HB2014 sought to put the state on daylight saving time.
Lovas said although he thinks it is a good idea to sync the state with 48 other states where time changes are a regular occurrence, most of the feedback he received was against the idea.

4/28/2015 (HB2410):

Gov. Doug Ducey has vetoed a bill that was intended to quash police ticket quotas.
Ducey said in his veto message he was concerned the bill would prevent police chiefs from “objectively gauging performance in their departments.”
He also wrote that “while quotas for traffic complaints don’t currently appear to be happening in Arizona law enforcement entities, none of us want to see such policies implemented. Therefore, I understand the intent of House Bill 2410.”
The governor said he remains open to working to find ways to ensure quotas don’t become a practice in Arizona.
HB2410 called for prohibiting law enforcement agencies at the local, county and state level from requiring officers to issue a certain number of citations within a specific period of time.
Departments would have been prohibited from using the number of citations written by officers to determine rank.
One provision removed from the bill called for prohibiting departments from using the number of traffic tickets issued by officers to determine the officer’s classification.

3/27/2015 (HB2376):

A bill died in committee that sought to prohibit local governments and police departments from requiring officers to issue a certain number of citations within a specific period of time.
HB2376 would also have prohibited departments from using the number of citations written by officers to determine rank or classification.
The changes would not have affected county and state law enforcement agencies.
A similar bill, HB2410, however is moving to the governor’s desk.

3/17/2015 (HB2410):

The Senate Public Safety, Military and Technology Committee voted unanimously to advance a bill that would prohibit law enforcement agencies from requiring officers to issue a certain number of citations within a specific period of time.
House lawmakers already approved the bill on a 54-4 vote. HB2410 now awaits consideration on the Senate floor. If approved there, it would move to the governor’s desk.
Departments would be prohibited from using the number of citations written by officers to determine rank or classification.
An amendment added to the bill would also apply the changes to county and state law enforcement agencies.

2/9/2015 (HB2410):

The House County and Municipal Affairs Committee voted unanimously to advance a bill that would prohibit local governments and police departments from requiring officers to issue a certain number of citations within a specific period of time.
Sponsored by Rep. David Stevens, R-Sierra Vista, HB2410 would also prohibit departments from using the number of citations written by officers to determine rank or classification.
The changes would not affect county and state law enforcement agencies.
The bill awaits further consideration on the House floor. If approved there, it would move to the Senate.

2/9/2015 (HB2376):

A bill in the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee would prohibit local governments and police departments from requiring officers to issue a certain number of citations within a specific period of time.
HB2376 would also prohibit departments from using the number of citations written by officers to determine rank or classification.
The changes would not affect county and state law enforcement agencies.

4/23/2015 (HB2416):

Gov. Doug Ducey has signed into law a bill that covers towing operations. It takes effect in July.
Previously HB2416, the new law requires the Department of Public Safety to conduct rate surveys and create a heavy duty rotator recovery vehicle classification for towing services. A requirement for towers to notify consumers of their right to file a complaint with the DPS if they believe they have been assessed unreasonable charges is included.

4/23/2015 (HB2523):

Gov. Doug Ducey has signed into law a bill that covers towing.
HB2523 permits vehicle owners to choose any towing company or tow operator to move a vehicle from a towing company’s storage premises to a repair facility.
The new rule takes effect July 1.

4/2/2015 (HB2416):

The Senate voted 26-1 on Thursday, April 2, to advance a bill that would require the Department of Public Safety to conduct rate surveys and create a heavy duty rotator recovery vehicle classification for towing services.
HB2416 includes a requirement for towers to notify consumers of their right to file a complaint with the DPS if they believe they have been assessed unreasonable charges.
The bill now heads back to the House for consideration of changes. If approved there, it would move to Gov. Doug Ducey’s desk.

4/2/2015 (HB2523):

A bill headed to Gov. Doug Ducey’s desk covers towing rules.
HB2523 would permit vehicle owners to choose any towing company or tow operator to move a vehicle from a towing company’s storage premises to a repair facility.

5/8/2015 (SB1300):

A new law covers the use of police-worn cameras. SB1300 sets up a study committee to recommend policies and laws on the use of images and recordings captured by the devices.

6/26/2015 (HB1744):

A new law authorizes the use of automated license plate readers at weigh stations.
Previously HB1744, the new law authorizes state police to use the readers to verify registration, logs, and other compliance data.
Data can be kept for as long as 150 days.

4/13/2015 (SB755):

Gov. Asa Hutchinson recently signed a bill into law to do away with indemnification clauses in trucking contracts. The clauses are set up to protect shippers or hold them harmless from anything that happens with a shipment.
Already in effect, the new law forbids provisions in contracts that provide for shippers to be indemnified for losses caused by their own negligence and make them “void and unenforceable.”
Affected contracts in Arkansas are defined as “an express or implied contract, agreement, or understanding” between a motor carrier and a shipper covering the transportation of property for hire by the motor carrier, entry on property to load, unload, or transport property, including the storage of property.
The protection in SB755 does not apply to intermodal chassis, or other intermodal equipment.

3/10/2015:

The Senate voted 24-5 to do away with indemnification clauses in trucking contracts. The clauses are set up to protect shippers or hold them harmless from anything that happens with a shipment.
SB755 would outlaw provisions in contracts that provide for shippers to be indemnified for losses caused by their own negligence and make them “void and unenforceable.”
Affected contracts would be defined as “an express or implied contract, agreement, or understanding” between a motor carrier and a shipper covering the transportation of property for hire by the motor carrier, entry on property to load, unload, or transport property, including the storage of property.
The protection would not apply to intermodal chassis, or other intermodal equipment.
The bill awaits further consideration in the House. If approved there, it would move to the governor’s desk.

4/14/2015 (SB562):

Gov. Asa Hutchinson signed a bill into law changes the consumer complaint resolution process for towing.
Previously SB562, the new law requires the Arkansas Towing and Recovery Board to resolve complaints within 45 days. The board is also authorized to order tow companies to make restitution payments under certain conditions.
The changes are set to take effect in late July.

4/14/2015 (SB893):

Gov. Asa Hutchinson has signed a bill into law that requires the Arkansas Towing and Recovery Board to set up a complaint process for the removal or suspension of a towing company from a non-consensual rotation list, and set fines for companies that violate rotation list policies.
Previously SB893, the new law also specifies the severity of potential violations and generally requires law enforcement agencies to establish rotation lists.
The change is set to take effect in late July.

3/13/2015:

After nearly two decades of keeping large truck speeds slower than other vehicles, Arkansas highways are days away from having uniform speeds posted for all vehicles.
The Arkansas Highway Commission approved an order on Wednesday, March 11, abandoning truck speed rules adopted in 1996. Since then, truck speeds on rural stretches of interstate have been 65 mph while motorists have been permitted to travel 70 mph. Speeds on urban interstates are posted at 60 mph for all vehicles.
Research has shown that a differential speed limit is not effective for the efficient flow of traffic, according to the order.
Danny Straessle, spokesman with the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department, said the agency was noticing a lot of problems with congestion along Interstate 40 in east Arkansas.
“In some instances (the speed differential) actually delays traffic or causes congestion,” Straessle told Land Line. “It was a matter of ‘Are we really accomplishing anything with a differential speed limit?’ ‘Are we hurting the situation more than we are helping?’ So the commission made the decision to just go ahead and do away with the differential.”
Weather permitting, sign crews are scheduled to start removing the truck speed signage starting Monday, March 16. Straessle said it could take one week to make all needed updates. In the meantime, he said patrol officers will use discretion when enforcing the posted speed limit.
Straessle said the commission noted that none of Arkansas’ neighboring states has a speed differential. In fact, as Arkansas makes the switch only seven states continue to observe speed limit differentials. The holdouts are California, Idaho, Indiana, Michigan, Montana, Oregon and Washington.
Officials with the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association welcome the long-overdue change in Arkansas. They say that roadways are safer when all vehicles are permitted to travel at the same rate of speed.

4/10/2013 (HB1180):

Gov. Mike Beebe signed a bill into law on Monday, April 8, that is intended to keep most drivers out of the fast lane. Currently, state law requires drivers to merge right only when another vehicle is trying to pass.
Effective this summer, HB1180 will make left lane use off limits for anything other than passing.
“Periodic signs” will be posted to alert travelers to the new rule.

4/3/2013:

The House voted to advance a bill that would prohibit hanging out in the left lane of multilane highways. It now moves to the Senate.
State law now requires drivers to merge right only when another vehicle is trying to pass.
HB1180 would make left lane use off limits for anything other than passing. Violators would face $100 fines.
The bill is in the Senate Transportation, Technology and Legislative Affairs Committee. For bill status, call 501-682-7771.

3/18/2013:

The House Public Transportation Committee voted to advance a bill that would prohibit hanging out in the left lane of multilane highways.
State law now requires drivers to merge right only when another vehicle is trying to pass.
HB1180 would make left lane use off limits for anything other than passing. Violators would face $100 fines.
For House bill status, call 501-682-7771.

2/4/2013:

A bill in the House Public Transportation Committee would prohibit hanging out in the left lane of multilane highways.
HB1180 calls for violators to face $100 fines.
For House bill status, call 501-682-7771.

4/23/2013 (SB802):

Gov. Mike Beebe signed into law a bill to clarify independent contractor status.
Previously SB802, the new law requires motor carriers to offer workers’ compensation to independent contractors. If owner-operators choose to accept the insurance coverage it would not terminate the individual’s independent contractor status.
The rule change takes effect in August.

4/10/2013:

The House Public Health, Welfare and Labor Committee voted to advance a bill to the chamber floor that seeks to clarify independent contractor status.
Motor carriers would be required to offer workers’ compensation to independent contractors. If owner-operators choose to accept the insurance coverage it would not terminate the individual’s independent contractor status.
If approved by the full House, SB802 would head to the governor’s desk. The Senate already approved it by unanimous consent.
For bill status, call 501-682-6107.

4/4/2013:

The Senate voted to advance a bill that would clarify independent contractor status.
SB802 would require motor carriers to offer workers’ compensation to independent contractors. If owner-operators choose to accept the insurance coverage it would not terminate the individual’s independent contractor status.
The bill is in the House Public Health, Welfare and Labor Committee. For bill status, call 501-682-6107.

3/15/2013:

A bill in the Senate Public Health, Welfare and Labor Committee would clarify independent contractor status.
SB802 would require motor carriers to offer workers’ compensation to independent contractors. If owner-operators choose to accept the insurance coverage it would not terminate the individual’s independent contractor status.
For Senate bill status, call 501-682-6107.

5/24/2013 (SB762):

A bill died that sought to prohibit unfair clauses in trucking contracts. SB762 remained in committee when the session ended.
The bill would have done away with indemnification clauses in trucking contracts. The clauses are set up to protect shippers or hold them harmless from anything that happens with a shipment.
Affected contracts typically are defined as a contract, agreement, or understanding between a motor carrier and a shipper covering the transportation of property for hire by the motor carrier, entry on property to load, unload or transport property, including the storage of property.
The protections sought exclude intermodal chassis, containers, or other intermodal equipment.

3/22/2013:

The Senate Judiciary Committee voted to advance bill to prohibit unfair clauses in trucking contracts.
SB762 would do away with indemnification clauses in trucking contracts. The clauses are set up to protect shippers or hold them harmless from anything that happens with a shipment.
Affected contracts typically are defined as a contract, agreement, or understanding between a motor carrier and a shipper covering the transportation of property for hire by the motor carrier, entry on property to load, unload or transport property, including the storage of property.
The protections sought exclude intermodal chassis, containers, or other intermodal equipment.
For Senate bill status, call 501-682-6107.

4/22/2011 (HB1891):

A bill has died in the House that sought to divert some tax revenue on auto sales, auto parts and auto service to highways.
Sponsored by Rep. Duncan Baird, R-Lowell, HB1891 would have shifted general revenue from the sale of new and used cars, auto parts and auto service to special revenue dedicated to roads. The shift would have occurred incrementally over 10 years.

3/16/2011:

A bill in the House Public Transportation Committee would divert some tax revenue on auto sales, auto parts and auto service to highways.
Sponsored by Rep. Duncan Baird, R-Lowell, HB1891 would shift general revenue from the sale of new and used cars, auto parts and auto service to special revenue dedicated to roads. The shift would occur incrementally over 10 years.
For House bill status, call 501-682-7771.

4/4/2011 (HJR1001):

Gov. Mike Beebe signed a bill to let voters decide on a temporary half-cent sales tax increase to fund bond programs to help address repairs and construction of a statewide four-lane highway system.
HJR1001 lets voters decide whether to increase the sales tax to pay for a $1.8 billion bond program for new highway construction.

3/29/2011:

The House voted 62-25 to advance an effort to the Senate that would let voters decide on a temporary half-cent sales tax increase to fund bond programs to help address repairs and construction of a statewide four-lane highway system.
A constitutional amendment sponsored by House Transportation Chairman Jonathan Barnett, R-Siloam Springs, would sunset after 10 years. HJR1001 would let voters decide whether to increase the sales tax to pay for a $1.8 billion bond program for new highway construction.
For bill status, call 501-682-7771.

3/16/2011:

An effort in the House would let voters decide on a temporary half-cent sales tax increase to fund bond programs to help address repairs and construction of a statewide four-lane highway system.
A constitutional amendment sponsored by House Transportation Chairman Jonathan Barnett, R-Siloam Springs, would sunset after 10 years. HJR1001 would let voters decide whether to increase the sales tax to pay for a $1.8 billion bond program for new highway construction.
For bill status, call 501-682-7771.

4/4/2011 (HB1902):

Gov. Mike Beebe signed a bill to allow voters to decide whether to boost the 22.5-cent diesel tax by five cents per gallon. The increase is one-half of a two-part plan to help fund nearly $3 billion in interstate highway repairs and construction throughout the state.
HB1902 exempts agricultural vehicles from the higher tax rate and limits the ballot measure to one vote.
Voters will get the final say on the tax increases, which would fund bond programs to help address repairs and construction of a statewide four-lane highway system.
The nickel increase in the diesel tax would be tacked on to the four cents of the tax now tied to a $575 million bond program for interstates, which was approved more than a decade ago. The bond program is slated to go before voters for renewal in 2012.
If the existing bond program is combined with the proposed diesel tax hike, about $1 billion would be made available for highway maintenance.

2/16/2011 (SB154):

Gov. Mike Beebe signed a bill into law Wednesday, Feb. 16, that targets hand-held cell phone use in highway work zones and near schools. Violations would be a secondary offense.
Previously SB154, the new law prohibits use of the devices. It takes effect Oct. 1, 2011.

3/1/2011:

One of the Arkansas Legislature’s more powerful members has a plan to fund nearly $3 billion in road repairs and construction throughout the state. If approved by voters, truckers would pay more tax at the pump.
House Speaker Robert Moore, D-Arkansas City, is readying a highway plan that relies on boosting the diesel tax by five cents per gallon. The other part of the plan relies on a temporary half-cent sales tax increase.
Voters would get the final say on the tax increases, which would fund bond programs to help address road repairs and construction of a statewide four-lane highway system. Cities and counties would each receive 15 percent of the funds.
The nickel increase in the diesel tax would be tacked on to the four cents of the tax now tied to a $575 million bond program for interstates, which was approved more than a decade ago. The bond program is slated to go before voters for renewal in 2012.
If the existing bond program is combined with the proposed diesel tax hike, about $1 billion would be made available for highway maintenance.
The sales tax increase would sunset after 10 years. It would be used to pay for a $1.8 billion bond program for new highway construction.
Moore’s proposal is based on recommendations of a governor-appointed task force to address a gap in transportation funding that is estimated at nearly $15 billion during the next decade.

11/30/2010:

A governor-appointed panel is recommending a series of funding proposals to pay for road improvements.
Despite being a largely rural and agricultural state with a population that ranks 32nd nationally, Arkansas has the nation’s 12th largest highway system.
In order to address a gap estimated at nearly $15 billion during the next decade, the Arkansas Blue Ribbon Committee on Highway Finance has been working for nearly two years to find ways to meet road needs while coping with fewer fuel tax dollars prompted by more fuel-efficient vehicles and drivers traveling less.
Among the options that the 19-member panel is proposing to lawmakers and Gov. Mike Beebe to eat into that funding gap is indexing the excise tax on gas and diesel with a three-year trailing average of the Construction Cost Index.
Other potential funding sources include imposing a new excise tax on the wholesale price of motor fuels; putting to a public vote a 10-year highway bond program, which would be repaid with proceeds from a one-half cent sales tax increase; and rerouting some sales tax revenue on vehicles from the general revenue fund to roads.
The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association is concerned about the outlook for getting transportation projects completed.
“There’s a lot of frustration everywhere about the lack of federal leadership to produce a long-term authorization bill. Without a clear path forward, Arkansas and other states are forced to pursue various funding methods,” said OOIDA Director of Legislative Affairs Mike Joyce.
Joyce also pointed out that many of the methods pursued may not exactly benefit highway users.
“Unfortunately, efforts like this could become very commonplace,” he said.
All options for generating revenue have their detractors. Gov. Beebe has said he is leery of pursuing tax increases or revenue transfers to pay for road work, without a source to replace the lost revenue.
OOIDA is encouraged to see that there is a proposal to reroute transportation money from the general fund for new roads.
The highway panel acknowledges that it will be difficult for lawmakers to endorse tax increases during the regular session beginning Jan. 10, 2011, but they are calling on the state’s House and Senate members to at least look at their recommendations.

3/17/2016 (AB2432):

A bill in the Assembly Transportation Committee would require the California Department of Transportation to prepare an inventory of all state and locally designated truck routes and services. Inventory would include all truck route information including maps, weight limits, and height restrictions for all routes, as well as trucking services available on the routes.
After collecting the information, the agency would be responsible for publishing a statewide truck route network to be available on the Internet. The site must include an interactive map to detail information for every state and locally designated truck route.
Sponsored by Assemblywoman Cheryl Brown, D-San Bernardino, AB2432 would also make Caltrans responsible for identifying infrastructure inconsistencies in designated truck routes that could result in “unnecessary bottlenecks, hours of delay, system inefficiencies, and non-standardized weight limits and height restrictions across jurisdictions.”
In addition, the department would be required to determine where gaps in services, parking, and rest area locations may result in “significant inefficiencies” for professional drivers.
Possible changes would not come along any time soon. The information, including an estimate of the annual cost and the total cost of carrying out a plan, would need to be submitted to the governor and state Legislature by July 2019.
The bill could get a committee hearing as early as March 22.

3/4/2016 (AB2805):

Assemblymember Kristin Olsen, R-Modesto, has introduced a bill to address concern about the theft of truck, rail and container cargo theft.
California law already appropriates funding to cover the costs for the Highway Patrol to deter commercial vehicle cargo thefts and provide security of carriers and cargoes throughout the state.
AB2805 would “enhance crime prevention efforts” by establishing a pilot program to strengthen law enforcement agencies’ ability to detect and monitor cargo theft crimes, and to authorize a cargo theft prevention program. Specifically, the program would create statewide standards and methods of detecting and tracking cargo theft crime.
The bill awaits assignment to committee in the Assembly.

2/4/2016 (AJR28):

An effort underway in the Assembly addresses whether the observance of daylight saving time is worth continuing.
Sponsored by Assemblyman Jay Obernolte, R-Big Bear Lake, AJR28 urges the U.S. Congress to allow states to decide on the observance of daylight saving time.
Currently, Arizona and Hawaii are the lone states not to take part in time changes.

6/25/2015 (AB1043):

The Senate Transportation and Housing Committee voted unanimously to advance a bill that would add 97 state Route 43 to the list of interregional routes.
The interregional route designation distinguishes routes that are outside urbanized areas that connect “major activity centers” in the state. The designation is necessary to be eligible for additional funding.
AB1043 awaits further consideration in the Senate Appropriations Committee. Assembly lawmakers already approved it on a 60-14 vote.

8/3/2015 (AB1287):

A bill awaiting consideration on the Senate floor covers the use of ticket cameras in the San Francisco area.
California law allows the city and county of San Francisco to issue citations based on photos snapped of parking violations in transit-only lanes. Municipal Transportation Agency transit vehicles are authorized to be outfitted with cameras to record parking violations occurring in the nearly 15 miles of affected lanes.
Violators found in the Muni lanes face $100 fines.
The San Francisco program, which has been in place since 2008, is slated to sunset at the end of this year.
AB1287 would make the program permanent. In addition, the program would be expanded to cover other moving violations that “impede or interfere with transit performance and public safety.”
Specifically, added violations would cover vehicles driving in transit-only lanes, “block the box” violations in which vehicles obstruct intersections and crosswalks, and illegally parked or stopped vehicles at bus stops.
Fines for getting caught running a red light are $480.
If approved by the full Senate, the bill move need approval of changes by the Assembly before it could advance to the governor’s desk.

10/15/2015 (AB210):

Gov. Jerry Brown vetoed a bill that called for freeing up carpool lanes in the Los Angeles area during non-peak hours and weekends. It is the second time in three years the governor used his veto power to kill the bill.
“I vetoed a nearly identical bill last session,” Brown said in his veto message. “I continue to believe that carpool lanes are especially important in Los Angeles County to reduce pollution and maximize the use of freeways. Therefore, we should continue to retain the current 24/7 carpool lane control.”
The bill won widespread approval in the statehouse. Senate lawmakers voted unanimously to advance the bill after Assembly lawmakers voted in favor of the bill with a 77-1 vote.
As approved by state lawmakers, the bill sought to affect traffic on the 134 Freeway from North Hollywood to Pasadena and on the 210 Freeway from Pasadena to Glendora.
AB210 called for setting up a pilot program similar to how Northern California limits carpool usage between 6 and 10 a.m. and again between 4 and 7 p.m. on weekdays.

9/12/2013:

Gov. Jerry Brown signed a bill into law that authorizes Alameda and Contra Costa counties to put transportation measures on their ballots to boost funding for local infrastructure.
The counties cannot put transportation sales tax measures on the ballot without first getting an exemption from state lawmakers. The restriction is in place because some cities in the counties would be pushed above a local two percent sales tax cap set by the state.
Previously AB210, the new law grants both counties the authority to exceed the local cap if voters approve an increase by Dec. 31, 2020.

8/23/2013:

The Senate voted 25-12 to send a bill to Gov. Jerry Brown that would authorize Alameda and Contra Costa counties to put transportation measures on their ballots to boost funding for local infrastructure. Assembly lawmakers already approved it on a 46-23 vote.
The counties cannot put transportation sales tax measures on the ballot without first getting an exemption from state lawmakers. The restriction is in place because some cities would be pushed above a local two percent sales tax cap set by the state.
AB210 would grant both counties the authority to exceed the local cap if voters approve an increase by Dec. 31, 2020.
For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

6/18/2013:

The Senate Governance and Finance Committee voted 5-2 to advance a bill to the chamber floor that would authorize Alameda and Contra Costa counties to put transportation measures on their ballots to boost funding for local infrastructure.
If approved by the full Senate it would move to Gov. Jerry Brown’s desk. The Assembly already approved it on a 46-23 vote.
The counties cannot put transportation sales tax measures on the ballot without first getting an exemption from state lawmakers. The restriction is in place because some cities would be pushed above a local sales tax cap set by the state.
AB210 would grant both counties the authority to exceed the cap if voters approve an increase by Dec. 31, 2020.
For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

6/3/2013:

A bill in the Senate Governance and Finance Committee would authorize Alameda and Contra Costa counties to put transportation measures on their ballots to boost funding for local infrastructure. The Assembly already approved it.
The counties cannot put transportation sales tax measures on the ballot without first getting an exemption from state lawmakers. The restriction is in place because some cities would be pushed above a sales tax cap set by the state.
AB210 would grant both counties the authority to exceed the cap if voters approve an increase by Dec. 31, 2020.
For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

5/23/2013:

The Assembly voted 46-23 to advance to the Senate a bill that would authorize Alameda and Contra Costa counties to put transportation measures on their ballots to boost funding for local infrastructure.
The counties cannot put transportation sales tax measures on the ballot without first getting an exemption from state lawmakers. The restriction is in place because some cities would be pushed above a sales tax cap set by the state.
AB210 would grant both counties the authority to exceed the cap if voters approve an increase by Dec. 31, 2020.
The bill is awaiting assignment to committee in the Senate. For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

4/30/2013:

A bill in the Assembly Revenue and Taxation Committee would authorize Alameda and Contra Costa counties to put transportation measures on their ballots to boost funding for local infrastructure.
The counties cannot put transportation sales tax measures on the ballot without first getting an exemption from state lawmakers. The restriction is in place because some cities would be pushed above a sales tax cap set by the state.
Sponsored by Assemblyman Bob Wieckowski, D-Fremont, AB210 would grant both counties the authority to exceed the cap if voters approve an increase by Dec. 31, 2020.
For Assembly bill status, call 916-319-2856.

7/16/2015 (AB4):

A bill died that aimed at helping the state address $295 billion in transportation needs during the next decade.
AB4 sought to void a practice in place since 2010 to pay bond debt. Since then, state lawmakers have rerouted from the state’s highway account the vehicle weight fees paid by commercial vehicles. Instead, Linder said the revenue should be applied to its intended purpose.

2/23/2015:

A bill in the Assembly Transportation Committee is aimed at helping the state address $295 billion in transportation needs during the next decade.
Sponsored by Assemblyman Eric Linder, R-Corona, AB4 would void a practice in place since 2010 to pay bond debt. Since then, state lawmakers have rerouted from the state’s highway account the vehicle weight fees paid by commercial vehicles. Instead, Linder said the revenue should be applied to its intended purpose.

12/15/2014:

Assemblyman Eric Linder, R-Corona, has filed a bill for consideration once the regular session begins early next month that is aimed at helping the state address $295 billion in transportation needs during the next decade.
Specifically, AB4 would void a practice in place since 2010 to pay bond debt. Since then, state lawmakers have rerouted from the state’s highway account the vehicle weight fees paid by commercial vehicles. Instead, Linder said the revenue should be applied to its intended purpose.
The bill can be considered during the session that begins Jan. 5.

7/16/2015 (AB66):

A bill died that covered the use of police body-worn cameras.
AB66 sought to set requirements and recommended guidelines for law enforcement agencies that require the use of body-worn cameras.

5/8/2015 (SB175):

The Senate voted unanimously to advance a bill that covers the use of police body-worn cameras. It now moves to the Assembly. SB175 would require law enforcement departments or agencies that require the use of body-worn cameras to develop a policy relating to their use. The bill is awaiting assignment to committee in the Assembly.

5/8/2015 (AB66):

A bill awaiting an Assembly floor vote covers the use of police body-worn cameras. AB66 would set requirements and recommended guidelines for law enforcement agencies that require the use of body-worn cameras.

5/8/2015 (AB69):

A bill awaiting an Assembly floor vote covers the use of police body-worn cameras. AB69 would specify a set of best practices that a law enforcement agency, department or entity establishing policies and procedures for the implementation and operation of body-worn cameras must consider.

7/16/2014 (AB69):

An Assembly bill would delay putting fuels under the state’s cap-and-trade program.
The program has been in place since 2006 through passage of AB32 – the California Global Warming Solutions Act. The program allows the California Air Resources Board to cap greenhouse gas emissions and require companies to buy permits to exceed those caps.
Currently, the cap applies to power plants and other heavy manufacturers. Starting Jan. 1, 2015, the program is set to expand to include oil companies. It is estimated the program could result in at least a 15-cent-per-gallon fuel tax increase.
Assemblyman Henry Perea, D-Fresno, introduced a bill that would delay for three years the rule requiring the energy industry to purchase permits for transportation fuels.
AB69 can be considered once state lawmakers return from summer recess on Aug. 4.

10/19/2015 (AB8):

Gov. Jerry Brown signed into law a bill to require the California Highway Patrol to activate a “Yellow Alert” system under certain circumstances to find vehicles suspected in hit-and-run incidents.
The state’s existing network of freeway signs would be used to broadcast information when there is a sufficient description of the vehicle or the identity of the suspect is known.
Previously AB8, the new law limits use of the system to the area where the incident occurred and will only be used when the hit-and-run results in death or serious injury. The CHP could also prioritize activation of the system based on certain factors, if multiple alerts are requested.
The yellow alert system is the fourth freeway alert notice to be activated in the state. The other alerts are AMBER, which gives drivers information on child abductions; Blue, which notifies drivers about a violent attack on law enforcement; and Silver, which alerts drivers to a person at least 65 years of age who is missing under unexplained or suspicious circumstances.
The new law takes effect Jan. 1, 2016.

12/11/2014:

Assemblyman Mike Gatto, D-Los Angeles, has filed a bill for consideration during the upcoming regular session that would include hit-and-run vehicles in the state’s emergency alert program.
The program posts descriptions of vehicles and license plates on freeway signs in certain situations, including child abductions.
Gov. Jerry Brown vetoed the same bill during the fall. He cited concerns about adding alerts that could “overload the system.”
AB8 calls for a “Yellow Alert” system to alert the public about vehicles suspected in hit-and-run incidents and encourage drivers to report the vehicles. The system would be activated by law enforcement when a hit-and-run results in death or serious bodily injury, and a sufficient description of the vehicle is available.

10/4/2013:

Gov. Jerry Brown signed a bill into law extending for eight to nine years the 2016 sunset date on all registration and license fees at current rates.
Multiple vehicle fees were added in 2007 to help fund multiple clean air and clean vehicle incentive programs. One of the programs is intended to raise revenue to develop alternative fuel and clean-air technology in the state.
In an effort to reach that goal, AB8 continues until 2024 an increase in the annual vehicle smog-abatement fee by $8 and the registration fee by $3.
It’s a follow-up to a bill signed by then-Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger in 2006 that requires the state to cut the emission of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases by 25 percent. The state has until 2020 to match emissions levels from 1990.

9/20/2013:

A bill on its way to the governor’s desk would extend for eight to nine years the 2016 sunset date on all registration and license fees at current rates.
Multiple vehicle fees were added in 2007 to help fund multiple clean air and clean vehicle incentive programs. One of the programs is intended to raise revenue to develop alternative fuel and clean-air technology in the state.
In an effort to reach that goal, AB8 would continue until 2024 an increase in the annual vehicle smog-abatement fee by $8 and the registration fee by $3.
It is a follow-up to a bill signed by then-Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger in 2006 that requires the state to cut the emission of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases by 25 percent. The state has until 2020 to match emissions levels from 1990.

10/13/2015 (AB914):

Gov. Jerry Brown signed into law a bill to authorize the California Department of Transportation to construct a toll lane on the area’s Interstate 10 and 15 corridors. The San Bernardino County Transportation Commission will be permitted to operate a value-pricing program on the corridors.
Existing toll-free lanes could not be converted to pay lanes. However, high-occupancy vehicles lanes could be converted to high-occupancy toll lanes.
Previously AB914, the new law also permits the commission to pursue extending the HOT lanes to include I-10 connectors into Los Angeles County and on I-15 into Riverside County.

8/6/2015:

The Senate Transportation Committee voted unanimously to advance a bill to authorize the California Department of Transportation to construct a toll lane on the Interstate 10 and 15 corridors in the San Bernardino area.
Existing toll-free lanes could not be converted to pay lanes. However, high-occupancy vehicles lanes could be converted to high-occupancy toll lanes.
AB914 would permit the San Bernardino County Transportation Commission to operate a value-pricing program on the corridors. The commission would also be permitted to pursue extending the HOT lanes to include I-10 connectors into Los Angeles County and on I-15 into Riverside County.
The bill now moves to the Senate floor for further consideration. If approved there it would head back to the Assembly for approval of changes.

6/12/2015:

The Assembly voted 69-7 to advance a bill to authorize the California Department of Transportation to construct a toll lane on portions of the Interstate 10 and 15 corridors. It now moves to the Senate.
Sponsored by Assemblymember Cheryl Brown, D-San Bernardino, AB914 would permit the San Bernardino County Transportation Commission to operate a value-pricing program on the corridors.
Existing toll-free lanes could not be converted to pay lanes. However, high-occupancy vehicles lanes could be converted to high-occupancy toll lanes.
The commission would also be permitted to pursue extending the HOT lanes to include I-10 connectors into Los Angeles County and on I-15 into Riverside County.
The bill awaits assignment to committee in the Senate.

11/10/2015 (ABX1 15):

The Legislature continues to meet in special session in their pursuit of plans to address some of the $59 billion in state transportation needs over the next decade.
One bill in the Assembly Republicans nine-point, $6.6 billion plan would eliminate 3,500 “redundant” positions at Caltrans.
The state’s Legislative Analyst Office found that eliminating the positions in ABX1 15 would save the state $500 million each year.

11/10/2015 (ABX1 18):

The Legislature continues to meet in special session in their pursuit of plans to address some of the $59 billion in state transportation needs over the next decade.
ABX1 18 calls for rerouting to roads $1 billion in certain truck fees.
Since 2010 state lawmakers have diverted from the state’s highway account to the general fund the vehicle weight fees paid by commercial vehicles.

7/16/201 (SB1):

A bill that was intended to thwart an expected fuel tax increase after the first of the year through the state’s cap and trade program.
The program has been in place since 2006 through passage of AB32 – the California Global Warming Solutions Act. The program allows the California Air Resources Board to cap greenhouse gas emissions and require companies to buy permits to exceed those caps.
Currently, the cap applies to power plants and other heavy manufacturers. Starting Jan. 1, 2015, the program is set to expand to include oil companies. CARB has estimated the program could eventually result in a fuel tax increase between 15 cents and 76 cents per gallon.
SB1 sought to delay for 10 years the rule requiring the energy industry to purchase permits for affected fuels.

2/23/2015:

A bill in the Senate Environmental Quality Committee is intended to thwart an expected fuel tax increase after the first of the year through the state’s cap and trade program.
The program has been in place since 2006 through passage of AB32 – the California Global Warming Solutions Act. The program allows the California Air Resources Board to cap greenhouse gas emissions and require companies to buy permits to exceed those caps.
Currently, the cap applies to power plants and other heavy manufacturers. Starting Jan. 1, 2015, the program is set to expand to include oil companies. CARB has estimated the program could eventually result in a fuel tax increase between 15 cents and 76 cents per gallon.
Sponsored by Sen. Ted Gaines, R-Roseville, SB1 would delay for 10 years the rule requiring the energy industry to purchase permits for affected fuels.

12/4/2014:

Sen. Ted Gaines, R-Roseville, has introduced a bill that is intended to thwart an expected fuel tax increase after the first of the year through the state’s cap and trade program.
The program has been in place since 2006 through passage of AB32 – the California Global Warming Solutions Act. The program allows the California Air Resources Board to cap greenhouse gas emissions and require companies to buy permits to exceed those caps.
Currently, the cap applies to power plants and other heavy manufacturers. Starting Jan. 1, 2015, the program is set to expand to include oil companies. CARB has estimated the program could eventually result in a fuel tax increase between 15 cents and 76 cents per gallon.
SB1 would delay for 10 years the rule requiring the energy industry to purchase permits for affected fuels.
The bill can be considered once the session convenes Jan. 6.

9/16/2015 (SB34):

The Legislature has approved a bill to put in place rules on the use of technology used to track drivers’ movements through automated license plate readers, or ALPRs.
The Senate voted 25-11 to sign off on changes made to the bill to regulate use of the technology by the public and private sector. The vote cleared the way for SB34 to head to Gov. Jerry Brown’s desk. Assembly lawmakers approved the bill one day earlier on a 71-5 vote.
Entities in California using ALPRs would be required to adopt privacy policies and post the information online. A requirement would also be put in place to set policies on use and for how long data can be kept.
In addition, logs must be kept to keep track of each instance the license data is accessed, and the purpose.
The California Highway Patrol is already prohibited from selling information collected for private use.

9/2/2015:

A bill awaiting consideration on the Assembly floor would put in place rules on the use of technology used to track drivers’ movements through automated license plate readers, or ALPRs.
SB34 would regulate use of the technology by the public and private sector. If approved by the Assembly the bill would head back to the Senate for approval of changes before moving to the governor’s desk.
Entities in California using ALPRs would be required to adopt privacy policies and post the information online. A requirement would also be put in place to set policies on use and for how long data can be kept.
In addition, logs must be kept to keep track of each instance the license data is accessed, and the purpose.
The California Highway Patrol is already prohibited from selling information collected for private use.

8/12/2015:

The Assembly Privacy and Consumer Protection Committee voted unanimously to advance a bill that would regulate use of automated license plate readers by the public and private sector.
SB34 would require entities using ALPRs to adopt privacy policies and post the information online. Entities would also be required to set policies on use and for how long data can be kept.
In addition, logs must be kept to keep track of each instance the license data is accessed, and the purpose.
The California Highway Patrol is already prohibited from selling information collected for private use.
The bill awaits consideration on the Assembly floor. If approved there, it would move back to the Senate for final approval before heading to the governor’s desk.

6/26/2015:

The Senate voted 25-12 to advance a bill to require entities using automated license plate readers to post privacy policies online. It now moves to the Assembly.
SB34 would also require entities to set time limits for how long data can be kept.
In addition, logs must be kept to keep track of each instance the license data is accessed.
The California Highway Patrol is already prohibited from selling information collected for private use.
The bill is in the Assembly Privacy and Consumer Protection Committee.

1/23/2015:

A bill in the Senate Transportation and Housing Committee would regulate use of automated license plate readers by the public and private sector.
Sponsored by Sen. Jerry Hill, D-Mateo, SB34 would require entities using automated license plate readers, or ALPRs, to post privacy policies online. Entities would also be required to set time limits for how long data can be kept.
In addition, logs must be kept to keep track of each instance the license data is accessed.
The California Highway Patrol is already prohibited from selling information collected for private use.

12/17/2014:

Sen. Jerry Hill, D-Mateo, has filed a bill for consideration during the regular session that begins Jan. 6 to regulate use of automated license plate readers by the public and private sector.
SB34 is a reintroduction of a bill considered during the 2014 regular session to require entities using automated license plate readers, or ALPRs, to post privacy policies online. Entities would also be required to set time limits for how long data can be kept.
In addition, logs must be kept to keep track of each instance the license data is accessed.
The California Highway Patrol is already prohibited from selling information collected for private use.

9/11/2015 (SB350):

Senate President Pro Tem Kevin de Leon, D-Los Angeles; Assembly Speaker Toni Atkins, D-San Diego; and Gov. Jerry Brown held a news conference on Wednesday, Sept. 9, to announce they were pulling the plug on a measure that mandated a 50 percent cut in the use of petroleum in large trucks and personal vehicles by 2030.
Also included in SB350 are provisions to mandate a 50 percent increase in sales of renewable electricity, and doubling the energy efficiency of buildings by 2030.
The legislative effort comes on the heels of an executive order this spring from the Democratic governor that calls for a 40 percent cut to the state’s emissions from 1990 levels by 2030.
The leading lawmakers made the decision to drop the petroleum provision in an effort to save the energy policy bill before the session wrapped up on Friday.

9/3/2015:

The full Assembly could soon vote on a bill to enact energy policies that include a requirement for the use of gas and diesel in the state to be trimmed in half in the next 15 years.
SB350 would also mandate a 50 percent increase in sales of renewable electricity, and doubling the energy efficiency of buildings by 2030.
If approved by the Assembly the bill would head back to the Senate for consideration of changes before it could advance to the governor’s desk. However, time is running out. The session is set to end Sept. 11.

10/28/2015 (SB767):

Gov. Jerry Brown signed into law a bill to authorize the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority to impose by ordinance an additional local, countywide, one-half cent sales tax.
California law allows cities and counties to impose sales and use taxes beyond the state sales tax – dubbed transactions and use taxes – up to a combined 2 percent rate with voter approval.
Los Angeles County already collects a 1.5 cent sales tax that is dedicated to transportation purposes.
Specifically, SB767 asks county voters to pass a sales-tax increase to fund public transit improvements and “traffic reduction projects.” Approval would require a two-thirds majority vote.

8/19/2015 (SBX1 2):

A bill in the Senate Transportation and Infrastructure Development Committee would benefit efforts to raise money for roads and bridges.
Sponsored by Senate Minority Leader Bob Huff, R-San Dimas, SBX1 2 would dedicate $1.9 billion in cap-and-trade funding raised from taxes on motor fuels for transportation infrastructure.
The cap-and-trade program charges fees to polluters in the state. At the first of the year, the program was expanded to include gas and diesel producers.
The bill is part of a special session on transportation.

8/19/2015 (SCAX1 1):

A bill in the Senate Transportation and Infrastructure Development Committee would end the diversion of $3 billion annually in transportation tax dollars.
Sponsored by Senate Minority Leader Bob Huff, R-San Dimas, SCAX1 1 would let voters decide whether to protect $1.1 billion in transportation taxes by requiring the money to be used solely on transportation.
The bill is being considered as part of a special session on transportation.

8/19/2015 (SBX1 3):

A bill in the Senate Transportation and Infrastructure Development Committee would permit voters to decide whether high-speed rail bond proceeds totaling nearly $8 billion will be redirected to highways, roads and bridges.
Sponsored by Sen. Andy Vidak, R-Hanford, SBX1 3 is part of a special session on transportation.

8/19/2015 (SBX1 3):

The Senate Transportation and Infrastructure Development Committee killed a bill to come up with more money for transportation work.
SBX1 3 sought to permit voters to decide whether high-speed rail bond proceeds totaling nearly $8 billion will be redirected to highways, roads and bridges.

9/28/2015 (AB1222):

Gov. Jerry Brown signed into law a bill targeting “bandit tow truck drivers.”
State law already prohibits tow truck drivers from soliciting tows for disabled vehicles. However, officials report the law is difficult, if not impossible, to enforce because tow truck drivers do not need to provide documentation to police that they were solicited to a scene for a tow.
The new law requires all tow operators to maintain documents showing that they are summoned to or flagged down at the scene of an accident or disabled vehicle.
Previously AB1222, the new law also requires tow truck drivers to provide customers with a detailed estimate of charges and services to be performed before attaching the disabled vehicle to the tow truck.
Towing and storage fees are also capped.
Violators would face $2,500 fines and/or up to 90 days in jail.

7/23/2015 (AB162):

Gov. Jerry Brown signed into law a bill that instructs the California Department of Transportation to study wrong-way driving wrecks. The agency will also be responsible for looking at safety measures pursued by other states that could prevent such incidents.
Previously AB162, the new law requires Caltrans to submit a preliminary report to the state Legislature by Dec. 1, 2015. A final report is due by July 1, 2016.

5/1/2015 (AB23):

The Assembly Natural Resources Committee voted to kill a bill that is intended to thwart an expected fuel tax increase after the first of the year through the state’s cap and trade program. The program has been in place since 2006 through passage of AB32 – the California Global Warming Solutions Act. The program allows the California Air Resources Board to cap greenhouse gas emissions and require companies to buy permits to exceed those caps. Currently, the cap applies to power plants and other heavy manufacturers. Starting Jan. 1, 2015, the program is set to expand to include oil companies. CARB has estimated the program could eventually result in a fuel tax increase between 15 cents and 76 cents per gallon. AB23 called for exempting gas and diesel from the program.

5/1/2015 (SB5):

The Senate Environmental Quality Committee voted to kill a bill that was intended to thwart an expected fuel tax increase after the first of the year through the state’s cap and trade program. The program has been in place since 2006 through passage of AB32 – the California Global Warming Solutions Act. The program allows the California Air Resources Board to cap greenhouse gas emissions and require companies to buy permits to exceed those caps. Currently, the cap applies to power plants and other heavy manufacturers. Starting Jan. 1, 2015, the program is set to expand to include oil companies. CARB has estimated the program could eventually result in a fuel tax increase between 15 cents and 76 cents per gallon. SB5 sought to exempt gas and diesel from the program.

2/23/2015 (AB23):

A bill in the Assembly Natural Resources Committee is intended to thwart an expected fuel tax increase after the first of the year through the state’s cap and trade program.
The program has been in place since 2006 through passage of AB32 – the California Global Warming Solutions Act. The program allows the California Air Resources Board to cap greenhouse gas emissions and require companies to buy permits to exceed those caps.
Currently, the cap applies to power plants and other heavy manufacturers. Starting Jan. 1, 2015, the program is set to expand to include oil companies. CARB has estimated the program could eventually result in a fuel tax increase between 15 cents and 76 cents per gallon.
Sponsored by Assemblyman Jim Patterson, R-Fresno, AB23 would exempt gas and diesel from the program.

2/23/2015 (SB5):

A bill in the Senate Environmental Quality Committee is intended to thwart an expected fuel tax increase after the first of the year through the state’s cap and trade program.
The program has been in place since 2006 through passage of AB32 – the California Global Warming Solutions Act. The program allows the California Air Resources Board to cap greenhouse gas emissions and require companies to buy permits to exceed those caps.
Currently, the cap applies to power plants and other heavy manufacturers. Starting Jan. 1, 2015, the program is set to expand to include oil companies. CARB has estimated the program could eventually result in a fuel tax increase between 15 cents and 76 cents per gallon.
Sponsored by Sen. Andy Vidak, R-Hanford, SB5 would exempt gas and diesel from the program.

1/4/2015 (AB23):

Assemblyman Jim Patterson, R-Fresno, has introduced a bill that is intended to thwart an expected fuel tax increase after the first of the year through the state’s cap and trade program.
The program has been in place since 2006 through passage of AB32 – the California Global Warming Solutions Act. The program allows the California Air Resources Board to cap greenhouse gas emissions and require companies to buy permits to exceed those caps.
Currently, the cap applies to power plants and other heavy manufacturers. Starting Jan. 1, 2015, the program is set to expand to include oil companies. CARB has estimated the program could eventually result in a fuel tax increase between 15 cents and 76 cents per gallon.
AB23 would exempt gas and diesel from the program.
The bill can be considered once the session convenes Jan. 6.

12/4/2014 (SB5):

Sen. Andy Vidak, R-Hanford, has introduced a bill that is intended to thwart an expected fuel tax increase after the first of the year through the state’s cap and trade program.
The program has been in place since 2006 through passage of AB32 – the California Global Warming Solutions Act. The program allows the California Air Resources Board to cap greenhouse gas emissions and require companies to buy permits to exceed those caps.
Currently, the cap applies to power plants and other heavy manufacturers. Starting Jan. 1, 2015, the program is set to expand to include oil companies. CARB has estimated the program could eventually result in a fuel tax increase between 15 cents and 76 cents per gallon.
SB5 would exempt gas and diesel from the program.
The bill can be considered once the session convenes Jan. 6.

6/22/2015 (AB51):

The Assembly voted 58-14 to advance a bill that covers motorcyclists who ride between lanes of freeway traffic to bypass congestion. It now moves to the Senate.
The Golden State is the only place in the country that allows so-called lane splitting with motorcycles. State law does not address the practice.
AB51 would set guidelines for lane splitting.
Motorcycles would be authorized to be driven between rows of stopped or slowed vehicles in the same direction if the speed of traffic is 35 mph or less. However, motorcycles could be driven no more than 15 mph in excess of the speed of traffic.

2/20/2015:

A bill in the Assembly Transportation Committee covers motorcyclists who ride between lanes of freeway traffic to bypass congestion.
The Golden State is the only place in the country that allows so-called lane splitting with motorcycles. State law does not address the practice.
Sponsored by Assemblyman Bill Quirk, D-Hayward, AB51 would set guidelines for lane splitting.
Motorcycles would be authorized to be driven between rows of stopped or slowed vehicles in the same direction if the speed of traffic is 30 mph or less. However, motorcycles could be driven no more than 10 mph in excess of the speed of traffic.

12/11/2014:

Assemblyman Bill Quirk, D-Hayward, has filed a bill for consideration during the upcoming regular session that covers motorcyclists who ride between lanes of freeway traffic to bypass congestion.
The Golden State is the only place in the country that allows so-called lane splitting with motorcycles. State law does not address the practice.
AB51 would set guidelines for lane splitting. Motorcycles would be authorized to be driven between rows of stopped or slowed vehicles in the same direction if the speed of traffic is 35 mph or less. However, motorcycles could be driven no more than 10 mph in excess of the speed of traffic.
The bill can be considered when state lawmakers return to the Capitol on Jan. 5.

10/13/2015 (AB914):

Gov. Jerry Brown signed into law a bill to authorize the California Department of Transportation to construct a toll lane on the area’s Interstate 10 and 15 corridors. The San Bernardino County Transportation Commission will be permitted to operate a value-pricing program on the corridors.
Existing toll-free lanes could not be converted to pay lanes. However, high-occupancy vehicles lanes could be converted to high-occupancy toll lanes.
Previously AB914, the new law also permits the commission to pursue extending the HOT lanes to include I-10 connectors into Los Angeles County and on I-15 into Riverside County.

8/6/2015:

The Senate Transportation Committee voted unanimously to advance a bill to authorize the California Department of Transportation to construct a toll lane on the Interstate 10 and 15 corridors in the San Bernardino area.
Existing toll-free lanes could not be converted to pay lanes. However, high-occupancy vehicles lanes could be converted to high-occupancy toll lanes.
AB914 would permit the San Bernardino County Transportation Commission to operate a value-pricing program on the corridors. The commission would also be permitted to pursue extending the HOT lanes to include I-10 connectors into Los Angeles County and on I-15 into Riverside County.
The bill now moves to the Senate floor for further consideration. If approved there it would head back to the Assembly for approval of changes.

6/12/2015:

The Assembly voted 69-7 to advance a bill to authorize the California Department of Transportation to construct a toll lane on portions of the Interstate 10 and 15 corridors. It now moves to the Senate.
Sponsored by Assemblymember Cheryl Brown, D-San Bernardino, AB914 would permit the San Bernardino County Transportation Commission to operate a value-pricing program on the corridors.
Existing toll-free lanes could not be converted to pay lanes. However, high-occupancy vehicles lanes could be converted to high-occupancy toll lanes.
The commission would also be permitted to pursue extending the HOT lanes to include I-10 connectors into Los Angeles County and on I-15 into Riverside County.
The bill awaits assignment to committee in the Senate.

11/10/2015 (ABX1 17):

The Legislature continues to meet in special session in their pursuit of plans to address some of the $59 billion in state transportation needs over the next decade.
ABX1 17 calls for tapping the state’s Cap and Trade program. The program collects $1.9 billion annually through higher fuel prices to benefit Gov. Jerry Brown’s high speed rail project.
The bill would use 40 percent of the funds each year to help pay for their road and bridge funding plan.

8/19/2015 (ABX1 8):

Assemblymen David Chiu, D-San Francisco, and Richard Bloom, D-Santa Monica, are behind a bill that would triple the diesel fuel sales tax from 1.75 percent to 5.25 percent. The estimated $288 million each year in new revenue would be used to help maintain transit systems throughout the state.
The San Francisco Bay Area would get an estimated $110 million annually.
The bill is ABX1 8. The Senate version is SBX1 7.

8/19/2015 (SBX1 7):

Sen. Ben Allen, D-Santa Monica, is behind a bill that would triple the diesel fuel sales tax from 1.75 percent to 5.25 percent. The estimated $288 million each year in new revenue would be used to help maintain transit systems throughout the state.
The San Francisco Bay Area would get an estimated $110 million annually.
The bill is SBX1 7. The Assembly version is ABX1 8.
The legislation was introduced as part of a special session on transportation.

8/26/2015 (SBX1 1):

The Senate Transportation and Infrastructure Development Committee met recently to consider multiple funding options. The meeting was part of a special session on transportation.
The panel voted along party lines to approve a plan to raise about $4.3 billion annually for infrastructure largely through higher fuel taxes.
Sponsored by Sen. Jim Beal, the committee chairman, SBX1 1 would increase the state’s excise tax on gas and diesel by 12 cents.
Other revenue enhancers included in the bill would gradually increase vehicle license fees by 1 percent, raise vehicle registration fees by $35 and subject zero-emission vehicles to an annual $100 fee.
In addition, the bill includes a requirement that all revenue would be used solely for road and bridge work, and $300 million annually would be used for improving freight mobility at ports.
The state would split all new revenue each year with cities and counties.
The bill awaits further consideration in the Senate Appropriations Committee before moving to the Senate floor.

8/19/2015 (SBX1 1):

A bill in the Senate Transportation and Infrastructure Development Committee would raise revenue for infrastructure through higher fuel taxes.
Sponsored by Sen. Jim Beal, D-San Jose, SBX1 1 would raise about $4.3 billion annually. Most of the money would come by increasing the state’s excise tax on gas and diesel by 12 cents.
Other revenue enhancers included in the bill would gradually increase vehicle license fees by 1 percent, raise vehicle registration fees by $35 and subject zero-emission vehicles to an annual $100 fee.
In addition, the bill includes a requirement that all revenue would be used solely for road and bridge work, and $300 million annually would be used for improving freight mobility at ports.
The state would split all new revenue each year with cities and counties.
The bill is part of a special session on transportation.

4/22/2015 (SB16):

The Senate Transportation and Housing Committee voted to advance a proposal to raise revenue for infrastructure.
Sponsored by Sen. Jim Beall, D-San Jose, SB16 would increase the state’s excise tax on fuels by 10 cents for gas and 12 cents for diesel.
California already claims the second highest fuel tax rates in the nation with the gas rate set at 47.5 cents and the diesel rate set at 37.5 cents.
Truck weight fees would also be increased to help pay for road and bridge repairs.
The fees are supposed to be routed to the state’s highway account but for the past five years lawmakers have used the revenue to pay bond debt.
Other revenue enhancers included in the bill would increase vehicle license fees by 0.07 percent annually over five years, raise vehicle registration fees by $35 and subject zero-emission vehicles to an annual $100 fee.
In addition, the bill includes a requirement that all revenue would be used solely for road and bridge work, and improving freight mobility at ports.
The bill awaits further consideration in the Senate. If approved there, it would move to the Assembly.

10/20/2015 (SB178):

Gov. Jerry Brown signed into law a bill to require law enforcement agencies to get warrants before accessing information on cellphones, or other devices, that include emails, text messages and GPS data included on such devices as smartphones, tablets and laptops.
Previously SB178, the new law takes effect Jan. 1, 2016.
Law enforcement is permitted to gain access to a mobile device without a warrant when waiting for permission to search could put people at risk. An exception would also be made for instances when the owner or user gives consent.

9/22/2015:

Senate lawmakers voted 34-4 to sign off on changes to a bill that would require law enforcement agencies to get warrants before accessing information that includes emails, text messages and GPS data included on such devices as smartphones, tablets and laptops.
SB178 now moves to Gov. Jerry Brown’s desk. The Assembly already approved it on a 57-13 vote.
The bill would permit law enforcement to gain access to a mobile device without a warrant when waiting for permission to search could put people at risk. An exception would also be made for instances when the owner or user gives consent.

9/1/2015:

The full Assembly could soon take up for consideration a bill that would prohibit police from searching cellphones, or other devices, in certain instances without a warrant.
SB178 would require law enforcement agencies to get warrants before accessing information that includes emails, text messages and GPS data. If approved there, SB178 would move back to the Senate for consideration of changes before heading to the governor’s desk.
Law enforcement would be permitted to gain access to a mobile device without a warrant when waiting for permission to search could put people at risk. An exception would also be made for instances when the owner or user gives consent.

7/17/2015 (SB344):

The Senate voted 38-1 to advance a bill to add a requirement for prospective truckers to complete an instruction course from a commercial drivinxg institution certified by the state before being issued a license. CDLs could also be obtained through a program offered by an employer that has been certified by the Department of Motor Vehicles.
State law now requires commercial driver’s license applicants to pass written and driving tests. The law also exempts commercial driving courses that cost less than $2,500 from regulations set by the state.
In an effort to do away with “diploma mills,” SB344 would eliminate the exemption.
The bill is in the Assembly Appropriations Committee. If signed into law, the rule changes would take effect Jan. 1, 2018.

4/16/2015:

The Senate Transportation and Housing Committee voted unanimously on Tuesday, April 14, to advance a bill to add a requirement for prospective truckers to complete an instruction course from a commercial driving institution certified by the state before being issued a license.
State law now requires commercial driver’s license applicants to pass written and driving tests.
Sponsored by Sen. Bill Monning, D-Carmel, SB344 would make the Department of Motor Vehicles responsible for setting criteria and certifying that course training programs meet minimum standards to ensure driver proficiency when operating large trucks.
California law also exempts commercial driving courses that cost less than $2,500 from regulations set by the state.
The bill would eliminate the exemption.
SB344 awaits further consideration in the Senate.

9/30/2014 (AB1447):

Gov. Jerry Brown has signed a bill into law to make traffic synchronization programs eligible for funding through the Greenhouse Gas Emission Fund. Previously AB1447, the new law takes effect Jan. 1, 2015.
The Greenhouse Gas Emission Fund receives money from power plants and other heavy manufacturers that must buy permits to exceed greenhouse gas emissions that were set in a 2006 law. The program is set to expand to include oil companies after the first of the year.

5/30/2014 (AB2728):

A bill met its demise this week that sought to route truck weights fees to fix roads.
Since 2011, revenue from truck weight fees is routed to the state’s general fund. Previously, the fees were used for maintenance and rehabilitation of state highways.
AB2728 failed to advance from committee prior to a deadline, effectively killing it for the year.

10/6/2014 (AB935):

Gov. Jerry Brown has signed a bill into law that is intended to benefit military veterans.
AB935 will soon allow veterans to apply for a California driver’s license or identification card with a designation that identifies them as a veteran.
Veterans will be able to apply for the special license or ID starting Veterans Day 2015.

9/18/2014 (SB1079):

A bill is likely dead that was intended to thwart an expected fuel tax increase after the first of the year through the state’s cap and trade program.
The program has been in place since 2006 through passage of AB32 – the California Global Warming Solutions Act. The program allows the California Air Resources Board to cap greenhouse gas emissions and require companies to buy permits to exceed those caps.
Currently, the cap applies to power plants and other heavy manufacturers. Starting Jan. 1, 2015, the program is set to expand to include oil companies. CARB estimates the program could result in a fuel tax increase between 15 cents and 76 cents per gallon.
SB1079 called for exempting gas and diesel from the program.

8/26/2014:

A bill in the Senate Rules Committee is intended to thwart an expected fuel tax increase after the first of the year through the state’s cap and trade program.
The program has been in place since 2006 through passage of AB32 – the California Global Warming Solutions Act. The program allows the California Air Resources Board to cap greenhouse gas emissions and require companies to buy permits to exceed those caps.
Currently, the cap applies to power plants and other heavy manufacturers. Starting Jan. 1, 2015, the program is set to expand to include oil companies. CARB estimates the program could result in a fuel tax increase between 15 cents and 76 cents per gallon.
Sponsored by Sen. Andy Vidak, R-Hanford, SB1079 would exempt gas and diesel from the program.

10/6/2014 (SB486):

Gov. Jerry Brown has signed a bill into law that is designed to boost public confidence in the state’s transportation agency.
SB486 requires the California Department of Transportation to set up goals and performance measures. Specifically, Caltrans is required to prepare a strategic plan for modernizing the agency that will include public input.

6/3/2014 (SB893):

A bill died that sought to regulate use of automated license plate readers by the public and private sector.
SB893 failed to get final Senate approval before a deadline, effectively killing it for the year.
The bill would have kept ALPRs off private property. Public agencies would also have been forbidden from sharing their camera data.
The California Highway Patrol is already prohibited from selling information collected for private use.

5/29/2014:

The Senate could soon take up for consideration a bill that would regulate use of automated license plate readers by the public and private sector.
Sponsored by Sen. Jerry Hill, D-Mateo, SB893 would keep ALPRs off private property. Public agencies would also be forbidden from sharing their camera data.
The California Highway Patrol is already prohibited from selling information collected for private use.
If approved by the Senate, the bill would advance to the Assembly for further consideration.

1/30/2014:

A bill in the Senate Judiciary Committee would place guidelines on the use of automated license plate scanners.
Existing law authorizes the California Highway Patrol to keep records of innocent drivers for up to 60 days.
Sponsored by Sen. Jerry Hill, D-San Mateo, SB893 would require agencies to get a court order to gain access to license plate data of targeted drivers more than five years old. It would also prohibit sharing or selling information of innocent drivers.

9/30/2014 (SB1183):

A new law authorizes local governments to ask voters whether local fees should be collected to benefit bike paths, bike parking and other upgrades.
SB1183 permits questions to be included on local ballots about whether to add as much as $5 to vehicle registration fees during the next decade for building or improving bicycle infrastructure. Two-thirds majority of voters would need to endorse the surcharge for passage.

9/11/2014 (AB2393):

Gov. Jerry Brown signed a bill into law that permits counties to increase vehicle registration fees to set up fingerprint identification ID programs.
Since 1997, California law has authorized counties to charge $1 surcharges on car registrations while trucks can be charged $2. The revenue is used for fingerprint identification programs.
Previously AB2393, the new law permits the 45 counties already charging vehicle registration fees for fingerprinting ID programs to increase the amount. Specifically, affected counties can charge $2 on car registration fees – up from $1. Trucks would pay $4 – up from $2.
The 13 counties not already applying a charge on vehicle registrations could implement the fees.
The fees are in addition to the $46 base charge, which includes $1 for programs to encourage the voluntary retirement of vehicles that include high-polluting medium-duty trucks; a $24 surcharge to pay for additional California Highway Patrol officers; and other county fees that may be included.

9/2/2014 (SB1183):

The Senate voted 24-9 to endorse Assembly changes to a bill that would ask voters whether local fees should be collected to benefit bike paths, bike parking and other upgrades. It now moves to Gov. Jerry Brown’s desk.
SB1183 would authorize local governments to include questions on local ballots about whether to add as much as $5 to vehicle registration fees during the next decade for building or improving bicycle infrastructure. Two-thirds majority of voters would need to endorse the surcharge for passage.

8/18/2014 (AB2393):

The Assembly voted 42-32 to advance a bill to Gov. Jerry Brown’s desk that would permit counties to increase vehicle registration fees to set up ID programs. Senate lawmakers previously approved the bill on a 21-13 vote.
Since 1997, California law has authorized counties to charge $1 surcharges on car registrations while trucks can be charged $2. The revenue is used for fingerprint identification programs.
AB2393 would permit the 45 counties already charging vehicle registration fees for fingerprinting ID programs to increase the amount. Specifically, affected counties could charge $2 on car registration fees – up from $1. Trucks would pay $4 – up from $2.
The 13 counties not already applying a charge on vehicle registrations could implement the fees.
The fees are in addition to the $46 base charge, which includes $1 for programs to encourage the voluntary retirement of vehicles that include high-polluting medium-duty trucks; a $24 surcharge to pay for additional California Highway Patrol officers; and other county fees that may be included.

6/24/2014 (AB2393):

The Senate Transportation and Housing Committee voted to advance a bill that would permit counties to increase vehicle registration fees to set up fingerprint ID programs. The Assembly already approved it.
AB2393 would permit the 45 counties already charging vehicle registration fees for fingerprint identification programs to increase the amount. Specifically, affected counties could charge $2 on car registration fees – up from $1. Trucks would pay $4 – up from $2.
The 13 counties not already applying a charge on vehicle registrations could implement the fees.
The bill is in the Senate Appropriations Committee.

5/30/2014 (AB2393):

The Assembly voted 41-27 to advance a bill to the Senate that would permit counties to increase vehicle registration fees to set up fingerprint ID programs.
Sponsored by Assemblyman Marc Levine, D-San Rafael, AB2393 would permit the 45 counties already charging vehicle registration fees for fingerprint identification programs to increase the amount. Specifically, affected counties could charge $2 on car registration fees – up from $1. Trucks would pay $4 – up from $2.
The 13 counties not already applying a charge on vehicle registrations could implement the fees.

5/8/2015 (AB69):

A bill awaiting an Assembly floor vote covers the use of police body-worn cameras. AB69 would specify a set of best practices that a law enforcement agency, department or entity establishing policies and procedures for the implementation and operation of body-worn cameras must consider.

7/16/2014:

An Assembly bill would delay putting fuels under the state’s cap-and-trade program. The program has been in place since 2006 through passage of AB32 – the California Global Warming Solutions Act. The program allows the California Air Resources Board to cap greenhouse gas emissions and require companies to buy permits to exceed those caps.
Currently, the cap applies to power plants and other heavy manufacturers. Starting Jan. 1, 2015, the program is set to expand to include oil companies. It is estimated the program could result in at least a 15-cent-per-gallon fuel tax increase.
Assemblyman Henry Perea, D-Fresno, introduced a bill that would delay for three years the rule requiring the energy industry to purchase permits for transportation fuels.
AB69 can be considered once state lawmakers return from summer recess on Aug. 4.

10/6/2014 (SB1077):

Gov. Jerry Brown has signed a bill into law to set up a task force to develop a voluntary program to test a new way to get money from highway users.
Specifically, SB1077 authorizes a pilot program in the state to assess the practicality of taxing truckers and other drivers based on vehicle miles traveled in the state. The VMT tax could replace the state’s fuel tax as people are driving vehicles that get better mileage.

9/10/2014:

State senators voted 23-11 to sign off on changes to a bill that would set up a task force to develop a voluntary program to test a new way to get money from highway users. The bill now awaits Gov. Jerry Brown’s signature. Assembly lawmakers already approved it on a 46-26 vote.
SB1077 would authorize a pilot program in the state to assess the practicality of taxing truckers and other drivers based on vehicle miles traveled in the state. The VMT tax could replace the state’s fuel tax as people are driving vehicles that get better mileage.

6/6/2014:

The Senate voted 32-11 to advance a bill that would set up a voluntary program to test a new way to tax highway users. It now moves to the Assembly.
Sponsored by Sen. Mark DeSaulnier, D-Concord, SB1077 would establish a pilot program in the state to assess the feasibility of taxing truckers and other drivers based on vehicle miles traveled in the state. The VMT would replace the state’s fuel tax as people are driving vehicles that get better mileage.
The bill is scheduled for a hearing on June 23 in the Assembly Transportation Committee.

5/13/2014:

The Senate Appropriations Committee met on Monday, May 12, to briefly consider a bill that would set up a voluntary program to test a new way to tax highway users.
Sponsored by Sen. Mark DeSaulnier, D-Concord, SB1077 would establish a pilot program in the state to assess the feasibility of taxing truckers and other drivers based on vehicle miles traveled in the state. The VMT would replace the state’s fuel tax as people are driving vehicles that get better mileage.
At Monday’s hearing, an official with the state Department of Finance testified that the agency is opposed to the bill because it is “unnecessary.”
Committee members were told the California State Transportation Agency already has authority to implement any information gathering pilot program to explore alternative funding methods.
The committee elected to put the bill on “suspense file.” The designation puts bills with a fiscal cost in excess of $150,000 on hold until after the governor releases his May revisions to the state budget.
The state estimates that SB1077 would cost the state more than $1 million annually to administer.

10/24/2014 (SB828):

Gov. Jerry Brown signed a bill into law prohibiting state agencies, officials and corporations that provide services to the state from supporting or assisting the federal government to collect electronic data or metadata on citizens without a warrant.
Previously SB828, the new law takes effect Jan. 1, 2015.

8/27/2014:

The Assembly voted unanimously to advance a bill that would prohibit state agencies, officials and corporations that provide services to the state from supporting or assisting the federal government to collect electronic data or metadata on citizens without a warrant.
SB828 awaits Senate approval of changes made in the Assembly before it can move to Gov. Jerry Brown’s desk.

6/24/2014:

A bill in the Assembly Public Safety Committee is intended to thwart wayward federal surveillance programs. The Senate already approved it.
SB828 would prohibit state agencies, officials and corporations that provide services to the state from supporting or assisting the federal government to collect electronic data or metadata on citizens without a warrant.

5/23/2014:

The Senate voted 29-1 to send a bill to the Assembly that is intended to thwart wayward federal surveillance programs.
SB828 would prohibit state agencies, officials and corporations that provide services to the state from supporting or assisting the federal government to collect electronic data or metadata on citizens without a warrant.
The bill awaits assignment to committee in the Assembly.

3/24/2014:

A bill in the Senate Public Safety Committee is intended to thwart wayward federal surveillance programs.
Sponsored by Sen. Ted Lieu, D-Torrance, SB828 would prohibit state agencies, officials and corporations that provide services to the state from supporting or assisting the federal government to collect electronic data or metadata on citizens without a warrant.

9/8/2014 (SB962):

Gov. Jerry Brown signed a bill into law to require manufacturers to install a shut-off function, or “kill switch,” in all new smartphones sold in the state by next summer.
The kill switch function allows smartphone owners to remotely disable their device if it is lost or stolen, rendering it useless to thieves. Owners can later reverse the function.
SB962 requires that new smartphones sold in the state starting in July 2015 prompt users to enable a kill switch during set-up.

8/22/2014:

The Senate voted 28-8 to sign off on changes to a bill that would require manufacturers to install a shut-off function, or “kill switch,” in all new smartphones sold in the state by next summer. Assembly lawmakers previously approved it on a 53-20 vote.
The bill now awaits action by Gov. Jerry Brown.
The kill switch function allows smartphone owners to remotely disable their device if it is lost or stolen, rendering it useless to thieves. Owners can later reverse the function.
SB962 would require that new smartphones sold in the state starting in mid-2015 prompt users to enable a kill switch during set-up.

7/22/2014:

The Assembly Utilities and Commerce Committee has voted 9-2 to advance a bill that would require manufacturers to install a shut-off function, or “kill switch,” in all new smartphones sold in the state by next summer. Specifically, the bill would require that new smartphones sold in the state prompt users to enable a kill switch during set-up.
The kill switch function allows smartphone owners to remotely disable their device if it is lost or stolen, rendering it useless to thieves. Owners can later reverse the function.
The bill now awaits consideration on the Assembly floor when lawmakers return on Aug. 4 from summer break. If approved there, SB962 would need Senate approval of changes before moving to the governor’s desk.

6/10/2014:

The Senate voted 26-8 to send a bill to the Assembly that would require cellphone manufacturers to install and activate a shut-off function in all smartphones sold in the state by next summer.
SB962 would require a kill switch to be the default setting.
A change made to the bill would exempt tablets.
The bill is in the Assembly Business, Professions and Consumer Protection Committee

12/4/2014:

A group of California state lawmakers are renewing their fight against an impending fuel tax increase. Republicans in the state Assembly and Senate are concerned about a program in place since 2006 through passage of AB32 – the California Global Warming Solutions Act. The program allows the California Air Resources Board to cap greenhouse gas emissions and require companies to buy permits to exceed those caps.
Currently, the cap applies to power plants and other heavy manufacturers. Starting Jan. 1, 2015, the program is set to expand to include oil companies. CARB has estimated the program could eventually result in a fuel tax increase between 15 cents and 76 cents per gallon.
State lawmakers on both sides of the aisle called for action this summer by Democratic leaders and Gov. Jerry Brown to prevent the looming tax increase. Senate President Pro Tem Darrell Steinberg, however, made it clear that he would not stand in the way of plans to put fuels that include gas and diesel under the state’s cap-and-trade program the first of the year.
Despite the setback, multiple lawmakers are picking up where they left off earlier this year.
Among the bills offered for consideration during the upcoming regular session is a measure that would exempt gas and diesel from the program.
Assemblyman Scott Wilk, R-Santa Clarita, said that drivers do not deserve to be penalized by “un-elected bureaucrats.”
“I am all for clean air and doing what we can for climate change, but not at the expense of our economy and not with a regressive tax,” Wilk said in a news release. “At this point only Gov. Brown can stop CARB from enforcing this tax.”
Sen. Ted Gaines, R-Roseville, has offered an alternative to a complete exemption for transportation fuels. His bill would delay for 10 years the rule requiring the energy industry to purchase permits for affected fuels.
“California already has the highest gas taxes in the nation at about 70 cents per gallon,” Gaines stated. “And now we’re asking the state’s working families and small businesses to dig even deeper into their pockets. When is enough, enough?”
The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association is on record in support of delaying the mandate. The Association previously sent communication to California state lawmakers conveying their concerns about the increased costs that small-business truckers would be forced to absorb.
OOIDA is also one of nearly 40 groups to call on state lawmakers to action to ensure the expanded regulation does not happen “until the California Air Resources Board fully and transparently assesses and communicates the effects of the expansion to the public.
“This is necessary to ensure that the public fully understands the impacts on individuals and to the state’s economic well-being.”
The bills can be considered once the session convenes Jan. 6.

10/3/2013 (AB184):

Gov. Jerry Brown signed a bill into law that concerns fatal hit-and-run crashes.
Previously AB184, the new law doubles the statute of limitations for such crimes from three years to six years.
The new rule changes existing law, which allows motorists who flee the scene of an accident to simply “run out the clock” to avoid all criminal liability for seriously injuring or killing another person in a hit-and-run.

9/16/2013:

A bill on its way to Gov. Jerry Brown’s desk addresses concerns about fatal hit-and-run crashes.
Current law allows motorists who flee the scene of an accident to simply “run out the clock” to avoid all criminal liability for seriously injuring or killing another person in a hit-and-run.
AB184 would double the statute of limitations for such crimes from three years to six years.
For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

10/3/2013 (AB405):

Gov. Jerry Brown vetoed a bill that called for freeing up carpool lanes in the Los Angeles area during non-peak hours and weekends.
“Carpool lanes are especially important in Los Angeles County to reduce pollution and maximize use of freeways,” Brown wrote in his veto message. “We should retain the current 24/7 carpool lane control.”
The bill sought to affect traffic on the 134 Freeway from Studio City to Pasadena and on the 210 Freeway from Pasadena to Glendora.
AB405 called for setting up a pilot program similar to how Northern California limits carpool usage between 6 and 10 a.m. and again between 4 and 7 p.m. on weekdays.

9/16/2013:

The Assembly voted 69-1 to move a bill to the governor that would free up carpool lanes to all highway users in the Los Angeles area during non-peak hours and weekends. Senate lawmakers already approved the bill that would affect traffic on the 134 Freeway from Studio City to Pasadena and on the 210 Freeway from Pasadena to Glendora.
AB405 would set up a pilot program similar to how Northern California limits carpool usage between 6 and 10 a.m. and again between 4 and 7 p.m. on weekdays.
The Southern California program would run from Jan. 1, 2014, to May 21, 2015.
For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

6/25/2013 (AB612):

The Assembly voted 72-1 to advance to the Senate a bill that would lengthen yellow times at intersections posted with red-light cameras.
State law requires the minimum yellow time duration set at three seconds and a maximum duration of six seconds, with the longer intervals reserved for roadways with higher speeds.
AB612 would mandate all cities throughout the state that use the ticket cameras to lengthen yellow lights by one second. Any locales that do not make the change would have citations dismissed.
The bill awaits further consideration in the Senate Transportation and Housing Committee. For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

10/19/2015 (AB8):

Gov. Jerry Brown signed into law a bill to require the California Highway Patrol to activate a “Yellow Alert” system under certain circumstances to find vehicles suspected in hit-and-run incidents.
The state’s existing network of freeway signs would be used to broadcast information when there is a sufficient description of the vehicle or the identity of the suspect is known.
Previously AB8, the new law limits use of the system to the area where the incident occurred and will only be used when the hit-and-run results in death or serious injury. The CHP could also prioritize activation of the system based on certain factors, if multiple alerts are requested.
The yellow alert system is the fourth freeway alert notice to be activated in the state. The other alerts are AMBER, which gives drivers information on child abductions; Blue, which notifies drivers about a violent attack on law enforcement; and Silver, which alerts drivers to a person at least 65 years of age who is missing under unexplained or suspicious circumstances.
The new law takes effect Jan. 1, 2016.

12/11/2014:

Assemblyman Mike Gatto, D-Los Angeles, has filed a bill for consideration during the upcoming regular session that would include hit-and-run vehicles in the state’s emergency alert program.
The program posts descriptions of vehicles and license plates on freeway signs in certain situations, including child abductions.
Gov. Jerry Brown vetoed the same bill during the fall. He cited concerns about adding alerts that could “overload the system.”
AB8 calls for a “Yellow Alert” system to alert the public about vehicles suspected in hit-and-run incidents and encourage drivers to report the vehicles. The system would be activated by law enforcement when a hit-and-run results in death or serious bodily injury, and a sufficient description of the vehicle is available.

10/4/2013:

Gov. Jerry Brown signed a bill into law extending for eight to nine years the 2016 sunset date on all registration and license fees at current rates.
Multiple vehicle fees were added in 2007 to help fund multiple clean air and clean vehicle incentive programs. One of the programs is intended to raise revenue to develop alternative fuel and clean-air technology in the state.
In an effort to reach that goal, AB8 continues until 2024 an increase in the annual vehicle smog-abatement fee by $8 and the registration fee by $3.
It’s a follow-up to a bill signed by then-Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger in 2006 that requires the state to cut the emission of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases by 25 percent. The state has until 2020 to match emissions levels from 1990.

9/20/2013:

A bill on its way to the governor’s desk would extend for eight to nine years the 2016 sunset date on all registration and license fees at current rates.
Multiple vehicle fees were added in 2007 to help fund multiple clean air and clean vehicle incentive programs. One of the programs is intended to raise revenue to develop alternative fuel and clean-air technology in the state.
In an effort to reach that goal, AB8 would continue until 2024 an increase in the annual vehicle smog-abatement fee by $8 and the registration fee by $3.
It is a follow-up to a bill signed by then-Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger in 2006 that requires the state to cut the emission of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases by 25 percent. The state has until 2020 to match emissions levels from 1990.

9/5/2013 (SCA4):

The Senate Transportation and Housing Committee recently advanced an effort to ease the voter-approval threshold for transportation sales taxes.
In place since 1995, California law requires approval of two-thirds of voters in any city, county, or special district to pass transportation tax increases. Affected tax votes include vehicle fees, bonds and sales taxes.
One proposed amendment to the state constitution – SCA4 – would drop the threshold from 66.67 percent to 55 percent.
The proposed amendment awaits further consideration in the Senate. For Senate bill status, call 916-651-4171

9/5/2013 (SCA8):

The Senate Transportation and Housing Committee recently advanced a bill that would lower the voter threshold for approving local transportation-related tax questions.
In place since 1995, California law requires approval of two-thirds of voters in any city, county, or special district to benefit infrastructure improvements. Affected tax votes include property taxes and bonds.
A proposed amendment to the state constitution – SCA8 – would drop the threshold from 66.67 percent to 55 percent.
The measure awaits further consideration in the Senate. For Senate bill status, call 916-651-4171.

6/21/2013 (ACA8):

The Assembly voted 54-25 to advance to the Senate an effort to lower the voter threshold for approving local transportation-related tax questions.
In place since 1995, California law requires approval of two-thirds of voters in any city, county, or special district to benefit infrastructure improvements. Affected tax votes include property taxes and bonds.
A proposed amendment to the state constitution – ACA8 – would drop the voter threshold from 66.67 percent to 55 percent.
It has moved to the Senate Rules Committee. For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

5/23/2013 (SCA4):

The Senate Governance and Finance Committee advanced an effort to ease the voter-approval threshold for transportation sales taxes.
In place since 1995, California law requires approval of two-thirds of voters in any city, county, or special district to pass transportation tax increases. Affected tax votes include vehicle fees, bonds and sales taxes.
One proposed amendment to the state constitution – SCA4 – would drop the threshold from 66.67 percent to 55 percent.
The proposed amendment awaits further consideration in the Senate. For Senate bill status, call 916-651-4171.

5/23/2013 (SCA8):

The Senate Governance and Finance Committee advanced a measure that would lower the voter threshold for approving local transportation sales tax questions.
In place since 1995, California law requires approval of two-thirds of voters in any city, county, or special district to pass transportation tax increases. Affected tax votes include vehicle fees, bonds and sales taxes.
One proposed amendment to the state constitution – SCA8 – would drop the threshold from 66.67 percent to 55 percent.
The proposed amendment awaits further consideration in the Senate. For Senate bill status, call 916-651-4171.

4/30/2013 (SCA8):

A measure in the Senate Governance and Finance Committee would lower the voter threshold for approving local transportation sales tax questions.
Sponsored by Sen. Ellen Corbett, D-San Leandro, the proposed amendment to the state constitution – SCA8 – would drop the threshold from 66.67 percent to 55 percent.
In place since 1995, California law requires approval of two-thirds of voters in any city, county, or special district to pass transportation tax increases. Affected tax votes include vehicle fees, bonds and sales taxes.
The proposal is set for a May 15 hearing. For Senate bill status, call 916-651-4171.

2/21/2013 (SCA4):

A measure in the Senate Governance and Finance and Rules committees would ease the voter-approval threshold for transportation sales taxes.
In place since 1995, state law requires approval of two-thirds of voters in any city, county, or special district to pass transportation tax increases. Affected tax votes would include vehicle fees, bonds and sales taxes.
Sen. Carol Liu, D-Pasadena, offered a proposed constitutional amendment that would lower the passage requirement for propositions to 55 percent of voters.
SCA4 is awaiting consideration in the Senate. If approved by lawmakers, it would go to voters for the 2014 fall election. A simple majority would be necessary for passage.
For Assembly bill status, call 916-319-2856.

1/15/2013 (SCA4):

A Senate proposal would ease the voter-approval threshold for transportation sales taxes.
In place since 1995, state law requires approval of two-thirds of voters in any city, county, or special district to pass transportation tax increases. Affected tax votes would include vehicle fees, bonds and sales taxes.
Sen. Carol Liu, D-Pasadena, offered a proposed constitutional amendment that would lower the passage requirement for propositions to 55 percent of voters.
SCA4 is awaiting consideration in the Senate. If approved by lawmakers, it would go to voters for the 2014 fall election. A simple majority would be necessary for passage.
For Assembly bill status, call 916-319-2856

10/15/2015 (AB210):

Gov. Jerry Brown vetoed a bill that called for freeing up carpool lanes in the Los Angeles area during non-peak hours and weekends. It is the second time in three years the governor used his veto power to kill the bill.
“I vetoed a nearly identical bill last session,” Brown said in his veto message. “I continue to believe that carpool lanes are especially important in Los Angeles County to reduce pollution and maximize the use of freeways. Therefore, we should continue to retain the current 24/7 carpool lane control.”
The bill won widespread approval in the statehouse. Senate lawmakers voted unanimously to advance the bill after Assembly lawmakers voted in favor of the bill with a 77-1 vote.
As approved by state lawmakers, the bill sought to affect traffic on the 134 Freeway from North Hollywood to Pasadena and on the 210 Freeway from Pasadena to Glendora.
AB210 called for setting up a pilot program similar to how Northern California limits carpool usage between 6 and 10 a.m. and again between 4 and 7 p.m. on weekdays.

9/12/2013:

Gov. Jerry Brown signed a bill into law that authorizes Alameda and Contra Costa counties to put transportation measures on their ballots to boost funding for local infrastructure.
The counties cannot put transportation sales tax measures on the ballot without first getting an exemption from state lawmakers. The restriction is in place because some cities in the counties would be pushed above a local two percent sales tax cap set by the state.
Previously AB210, the new law grants both counties the authority to exceed the local cap if voters approve an increase by Dec. 31, 2020.

8/23/2013:

The Senate voted 25-12 to send a bill to Gov. Jerry Brown that would authorize Alameda and Contra Costa counties to put transportation measures on their ballots to boost funding for local infrastructure. Assembly lawmakers already approved it on a 46-23 vote.
The counties cannot put transportation sales tax measures on the ballot without first getting an exemption from state lawmakers. The restriction is in place because some cities would be pushed above a local two percent sales tax cap set by the state.
AB210 would grant both counties the authority to exceed the local cap if voters approve an increase by Dec. 31, 2020.
For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

6/18/2013:

The Senate Governance and Finance Committee voted 5-2 to advance a bill to the chamber floor that would authorize Alameda and Contra Costa counties to put transportation measures on their ballots to boost funding for local infrastructure.
If approved by the full Senate it would move to Gov. Jerry Brown’s desk. The Assembly already approved it on a 46-23 vote.
The counties cannot put transportation sales tax measures on the ballot without first getting an exemption from state lawmakers. The restriction is in place because some cities would be pushed above a local sales tax cap set by the state.
AB210 would grant both counties the authority to exceed the cap if voters approve an increase by Dec. 31, 2020.
For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

6/3/2013:

A bill in the Senate Governance and Finance Committee would authorize Alameda and Contra Costa counties to put transportation measures on their ballots to boost funding for local infrastructure. The Assembly already approved it.
The counties cannot put transportation sales tax measures on the ballot without first getting an exemption from state lawmakers. The restriction is in place because some cities would be pushed above a sales tax cap set by the state.
AB210 would grant both counties the authority to exceed the cap if voters approve an increase by Dec. 31, 2020.
For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

5/23/2013:

The Assembly voted 46-23 to advance to the Senate a bill that would authorize Alameda and Contra Costa counties to put transportation measures on their ballots to boost funding for local infrastructure.
The counties cannot put transportation sales tax measures on the ballot without first getting an exemption from state lawmakers. The restriction is in place because some cities would be pushed above a sales tax cap set by the state.
AB210 would grant both counties the authority to exceed the cap if voters approve an increase by Dec. 31, 2020.
The bill is awaiting assignment to committee in the Senate. For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

4/30/2013:

A bill in the Assembly Revenue and Taxation Committee would authorize Alameda and Contra Costa counties to put transportation measures on their ballots to boost funding for local infrastructure.
The counties cannot put transportation sales tax measures on the ballot without first getting an exemption from state lawmakers. The restriction is in place because some cities would be pushed above a sales tax cap set by the state.
Sponsored by Assemblyman Bob Wieckowski, D-Fremont, AB210 would grant both counties the authority to exceed the cap if voters approve an increase by Dec. 31, 2020.
For Assembly bill status, call 916-319-2856.

10/3/2013 (AB60):

Gov. Jerry Brown signed a bill into law that authorizes the state to offer driver’s licenses to immigrants in the country illegally.
AB60 requires a special mark and notation on licenses. The notation will state the document “does not establish eligibility for employment or public benefit.”

9/16/2013:

A bill on the way to Gov. Jerry Brown’s desk authorizes the state to offer driver’s licenses to immigrants in the country illegally.
AB60 requires a special mark and notation on licenses. The notation would state the document “does not establish eligibility for employment or public benefit.”
For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

9/17/2013 (AB767):

Gov. Jerry Brown signed one bill into law allowing counties throughout the state to double a local fee on cars and trucks for vehicle-theft prevention.
California law already authorizes Los Angeles, San Bernardino and San Diego counties to charge more to fight vehicle theft.
Previously AB767, the new law authorizes fees throughout the state to increase from $1 to $2 for personal vehicles and from $2 to $4 for commercial vehicles. The revenue pays for county programs to “deter, investigate, and prosecute vehicle theft.”
The increase in local revenue would amount to about $19 million annually.
Counties around the state with populations under 250,000 can also use the revenue to prosecute drunken driving and vehicular manslaughter cases.

8/26/2013:

A bill on its way to the governor’s desk would allow counties throughout the state to double a local fee for vehicle-theft prevention.
California law already authorizes Los Angeles, San Bernardino and San Diego counties to charge more to fight vehicle theft.
The Assembly voted to endorse changes to a bill that would authorize fees throughout the state to increase from $1 to $2 for personal vehicles and from $2 to $4 for commercial vehicles. AB767 now moves to Gov. Jerry Brown’s desk. Senate lawmakers already approved the fee that appears on vehicle registrations.
The revenue pays for county programs to “deter, investigate, and prosecute vehicle theft.”
The increase in local revenue would amount to about $19 million annually.
Counties around the state with populations under 250,000 could also use the revenue to prosecute drunken driving and vehicular manslaughter cases.
For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

9/17/2013 (AB902):

Gov. Jerry Brown vetoed a bill that called for boosting the fine for violating the state’s “move over” rule.
State law requires vehicles approaching a stopped emergency vehicle with flashing lights to move into a lane away from the vehicle. If unable to change lanes, the driver is required to reduce speed.
The current fine for failure to make way for emergency personnel is $50. After tacking on court fees and other costs, the total penalty is $238.
AB902 sought to increase the fine to $100 and $490, respectively.
Gov. Brown said that he believes the higher fine is more punitive than deterrent.
“No showing has been made that piling on an additional $252 will protect anybody,” Brown wrote in his veto message.

8/26/2013:

A bill headed to the governor would boost the fine for violating the state’s “move over” rule.
State law requires vehicles approaching a stopped emergency vehicle with flashing lights to move into a lane away from the vehicle. If unable to change lanes, the driver is required to reduce speed.
The current fine for failure to make way for emergency personnel is $50. After tacking on court fees and other costs, the total penalty is $279.
AB902 would increase the fine to $100 and $489, respectively.
For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

10/23/2013 (SB448):

Gov. Jerry Brown vetoed a bill that sought to create an office of fuel price investigation and manipulation prevention at the California Energy Commission.
SB448 authorized the new office to investigate potential incidents of illegal activity and recommend how to reduce price volatility in the state.
The governor referred to the bill as “unnecessary.”
“The Energy Commission already has the authority to analyze and interpret changes in petroleum supply and market price,” Brown wrote in a letter to Senate lawmakers explaining his veto.
However, he asked the Energy Commission to work with the Attorney General’s office to evaluate market trends and ways to respond to price volatility.
The governor called for setting up a plan and a rapid response team that can respond when “sudden and untoward price fluctuations occur.”
Leno said he’s “deeply disappointed” by Brown’s action but he pledged to continue to work with the governor on the issue.

9/2/2013:

The Senate voted 21-17 to agree to changes to a bill that would create an office of fuel price investigation and manipulation prevention at the California Energy Commission. The vote cleared the way for SB448 to move to Gov. Jerry Brown’s desk.
The bill would authorize the new office to investigate potential incidents of illegal activity and recommend how to reduce price volatility in the state.

7/31/2012 (AB1446):

The Senate Appropriations Committee is scheduled to consider a bill on Monday, Aug. 6, to help pay for dozens of local road, bus and rail projects more quickly. The Assembly already approved the bill on a 54-17 vote.
If approved by lawmakers, voters in Los Angeles County could decide this November whether to extend the length of the Measure R sales tax authorization indefinitely.
Approved by voters in 2008, Measure R increased the county’s sales tax by one-half cent from 8.25 percent to 8.75 percent with the revenue to be used to fund mass transit and road projects, including carpool lanes.
The tax is expected to raise as much as $40 billion for traffic relief and transportation upgrades in Los Angeles County through 2038.
A1446 would allow the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to bond against future Measure R proceeds and get transit projects done much sooner than initially planned, without relying on federal or state funding. He said it would also put people back to work more quickly.
For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

5/2/2012:

The Assembly Transportation Committee voted to advance a bill to help pay for local transit projects more quickly. If approved by lawmakers, voters in Los Angeles County could soon decide whether to extend the length of the Measure R sales tax authorization.
Approved by voters in 2008, Measure R increased the county’s sales tax by one-half cent from 8.25 percent to 8.75 percent with the revenue to be used to fund mass transit and road projects, including carpool lanes.
Sponsored by Assemblyman Mike Feuer, D-Los Angeles, AB1446 does not specify a sunset date on the tax increase.
The bill has moved to the Assembly Appropriations Committee. For Assembly bill status, call 916-319-2856.

4/20/2012:

The Assembly Local Government Committee voted to advance a bill to help pay for local transit projects more quickly. If approved by lawmakers, voters in Los Angeles County could soon decide whether to extend the length of the Measure R sales tax authorization.
Approved by voters in 2008, Measure R increased the county’s sales tax by one-half cent from 8.25 percent to 8.75 percent with the revenue to be used to fund mass transit and road projects, including carpool lanes.
Sponsored by Assemblyman Mike Feuer, D-Los Angeles, AB1446 does not specify a sunset date on the tax increase.
The bill has moved to the Assembly Transportation Committee. For Assembly bill status, call 916-319-2856.

2/8/2012:

A bill in the Assembly Local Government and Transportation Committee would help pay for local transit projects more quickly. If approved by lawmakers, voters in Los Angeles County could soon decide whether to extend the length of the Measure R sales tax authorization.
Approved by voters in 2008, Measure R increased the county’s sales tax by one-half cent from 8.25 percent to 8.75 percent with the revenue to be used to fund mass transit and road projects, including carpool lanes.
Sponsored by Assemblyman Mike Feuer, D-Los Angeles, AB1446 does not specify a sunset date on the tax increase.
For Assembly bill status, call 916-319-2856.

1/6/2012:

Assemblyman Mike Feuer, D-Los Angeles, introduced a bill Wednesday, Jan. 4, to help pay for local transit projects more quickly. If approved by lawmakers, voters in Los Angeles County could soon decide whether to extend the length of the Measure R sales tax authorization.
Approved by voters in 2008, Measure R increased the county’s sales tax by one-half cent from 8.25 percent to 8.75 percent with the revenue to be used to fund mass transit and road projects, including carpool lanes.
The tax is expected to raise as much as $40 billion for traffic relief and transportation upgrades through 2038.
AB1446 does not specify a sunset date on the tax increase. It is awaiting assignment to committee.
For Assembly bill status, call 916-319-2856.

9/27/2012 (AB1518):

Gov. Jerry Brown signed into law a bill to enable a weighmaster weighing construction loads, to use an unattended weighing system. Affected loads include dirt, stone, sand, gravel and ready mixed concrete.
Previously AB1518, the new rule takes effect Jan. 1, 2013.

9/19/2012 (AB1708):

Gov. Jerry Brown signed into law a bill to simplify providing proof of vehicle insurance. It takes effect Jan. 1, 2013.
Previously AB1708, the new law gives drivers the option to present their proof of vehicle insurance by smartphone, or other mobile device.
The bill also clarifies to law enforcement that the electronic version of this document is equivalent to the paper form and acceptable for presentation during a traffic stop or following a wreck.

5/2/2012 (AB1922):

The Assembly Appropriations Committee voted to advance a bill that covers a mandate that certain trucks based in the state undergo smoke testing.
The state’s Air Resources Board now requires owners or operators of at least two California-based trucks, with gross vehicle weight ratings of at least 14,000 pounds, to undergo annual inspections of their vehicles for excessive emissions of smoke.
The Periodic Smoke Inspection Program also mandates that truck models from 1998 and older, with weight ratings more than 6,000 pounds, must be tested for smoke opacity.
An exception is made for affected trucks until after the fourth model year of the engine. In addition, one-truck operations also are exempt from the testing requirement.
AB1922 was amended in committee to require truck owners to complete smoke opacity inspections and any necessary repairs on or before Dec. 31 each year.
For Assembly bill status, call 916-319-2856.

3/22/2012:

A bill in the Assembly Transportation Committee would do away with a mandate that certain trucks based in the state undergo smoke testing.
The state’s Air Resources Board now requires owners or operators of at least two California-based trucks, with gross vehicle weight ratings of at least 14,000 pounds, to undergo annual inspections of their vehicles for excessive emissions of smoke.
The Periodic Smoke Inspection Program also mandates that truck models from 1998 and older, with weight ratings more than 6,000 pounds, must be tested for smoke opacity.
An exception is made for affected trucks until after the fourth model year of the engine. In addition, one-truck operations also are exempt from the testing requirement.
Sponsored by Assemblyman Ricardo Lara, D-Bell Gardens, AB1922 would mandate that CARB change the testing requirements to exempt trucks with 2007 and newer model-year engines. In 2023, all affected trucks would no longer be required to undergo smoke tests.
Truck operations typically pay between $45 and $100 to have smoke opacity testing done. Failure to abide by the rule can result in fines of at least $500 per vehicle, per year.
For Assembly bill status, call 916-319-2856.

2/28/2012:

Assemblyman Ricardo Lara, D-Bell Gardens, has introduced a bill to do away with a mandate that certain trucks based in the state undergo smoke testing.
The state’s Air Resources Board now requires owners or operators of at least two California-based trucks, with gross vehicle weight ratings of at least 14,000 pounds, to undergo annual inspections of their vehicles for excessive emissions of smoke.
The Periodic Smoke Inspection Program also mandates that truck models from 1998 and older, with weight ratings more than 6,000 pounds, must be tested for smoke opacity.
An exception is made for affected trucks until after the fourth model year of the engine. In addition, one-truck operations also are exempt from the testing requirement.
AB1922 would mandate that CARB change the testing requirements to exempt trucks with 2007 and newer model-year engines. In 2023, all affected trucks would no longer be required to undergo smoke tests.
Truck operations typically pay between $45 and $100 to have smoke opacity testing done. Failure to abide by the rule can result in fines of at least $500 per vehicle, per year.
The bill is awaiting assignment to committee.
For Assembly bill status, call 916-319-2856.

9/27/2012 (AB2118):

Gov. Jerry Brown signed into law a bill to prohibit household goods movers from being brokers.
AB2118 also addresses unlicensed operators who use the Internet to lure customers.
A broker will be defined as “a person engaged for others” in setting up household goods hauls on behalf of shippers.
Also, HHG haulers with websites will be required to add a link directing visitors to the Public Utilities Commission website on moving companies, which promotes consumer rights and protection. Failure to abide by the rule could result in $2,500 fines.

9/24/2012 (SB1092):

Gov. Jerry Brown signed into law a bill to require construction trucking brokers to annually disclose a copy of his or her surety bond. It takes effect Jan. 1, 2013.
For nearly two years California law has required a broker of construction trucking services to post a bond to ensure payment to a contracted subhauler whose services were brokered. The broker also receives certification of the subcontracted company’s permit to operate.
Brokers are required to secure a surety bond of at least $15,000 to ensure payment. Failure to secure a bond is a misdemeanor and could result in as much as a $5,000 fine.
Previously SB1092, the new law addresses that problem by adding notification requirements to the existing broker bond.

8/29/2012 (SB1092):

The Senate voted unanimously to sign off on changes to a bill to require construction trucking brokers to disclose a copy of his or her surety bond. Assembly lawmakers approved the bill by unanimous consent. SB1092 now moves to the governor’s desk.
Since January 2011, California law requires a broker of construction trucking services to post a bond to ensure payment to a contracted subhauler whose services were brokered. The broker also receives certification of the subhauler’s permit to operate.
Brokers are required to secure a surety bond of at least $15,000 to ensure payment. Failure to secure a bond is a misdemeanor and could result in as much as a $5,000 fine.
SB1092 would require construction trucking brokers to disclose a copy of his or her surety bond.
If signed into law, it would take effect Jan. 1, 2013.
For bill status, call 916-651-4171.

8/28/2012 (AB2118):

The Legislature advanced a bill to the governor’s desk to prohibit household goods movers from being brokers.
AB2118 addresses unlicensed operators who use the Internet to lure customers. A broker would be defined as “a person engaged for others” in setting up household goods hauls on behalf of shippers.
Also, HHG haulers with websites would be required to add a link directing visitors to the Public Utilities Commission website on moving companies that promotes consumer rights and protection. Failure to abide by the rule could result in $2,500 fines.
For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

8/16/2012 (AB2118):

The full Senate could vote any day on a bill to prohibit household goods movers from being brokers. If approved, it would head back to the Assembly for a final vote before it could move to the governor.
AB2118 addresses unlicensed operators who use the Internet to lure customers. Brokers would be defined as “a person engaged for others” in setting up household goods hauls on behalf of shippers.
Also, HHG haulers with websites would be required to add a link directing visitors to the Public Utilities Commission website on moving companies that promotes consumer rights and protection. Failure to abide by the rule could result in fines of up to $2,500.
For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

8/15/2012 (SB1092):

Awaiting consideration on the Assembly floor is a bill that is intended to help subhaulers with brokers. It now moves to the Assembly.
Since January 2011, California law requires a broker of construction trucking services to post a bond to ensure payment to a contracted subhauler whose services were brokered. The broker also receives certification of the subhauler’s permit to operate.
Brokers are required to secure a surety bond of at least $15,000 to ensure payment. Failure to secure a bond is a misdemeanor and could result in as much as a $5,000 fine.
SB1092 would require construction trucking brokers to disclose a copy of his or her surety bond.
If approved on the Assembly floor it would move back to the Senate for consideration of changes before it could advance to the governor’s desk. For bill status, call 916-651-4171.

7/23/2012 (AB2118):

A bill in the Senate Energy, Utilities and Communications Committee addresses unlicensed operators who use the Internet to lure customers. The Assembly already approved it.
AB2118 would define brokers as “a person engaged for others” in setting up household goods hauls on behalf of shippers.
Also, HHG haulers with websites would be required to add a link directing visitors to the Public Utilities Commission website on moving companies that promotes consumer rights and protection. Failure to abide by the rule could result in fines of up to $2,500.
For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

6/7/2012 (AB2118):

The Assembly voted unanimously to advance a bill to prohibit household goods movers from being brokers. It now moves to the Senate.
AB2118 would define brokers as “a person engaged for others” in setting up household goods hauls on behalf of shippers.
Also, HHG haulers with websites would be required to add a link directing visitors to the Public Utilities Commission website on moving companies that promotes consumer rights and protection. Failure to abide by the rule could result in fines of up to $2,500.
The bill has moved to the Senate Rules Committee. For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

5/23/2012 (SB1092):

The Senate voted unanimously to advance a bill that is intended to help dump truck operators with brokers. It now moves to the Assembly.
Since January 2011, California law requires a broker of construction trucking services to post a bond to ensure payment to a dump truck operator whose services were brokered. The broker also receives certification of the dump truck operator’s permit to operate.
Brokers are required to secure a surety bond of at least $15,000 to ensure payment. Failure to secure a bond is a misdemeanor and could result in as much as a $5,000 fine.
Sponsored by Sen. Kevin de Leon, D-Los Angeles, SB1092 would require construction trucking brokers to disclose a copy of his or her surety bond.
The bill is awaiting consideration in the Assembly Transportation Committee. For bill status, call 916-651-4171.

4/30/2012 (AB2118):

A bill in the Assembly Appropriations Committee would prohibit household goods movers from being brokers.
Sponsored by Assemblywoman Betsy Butler, D-Los Angeles, AB2118 would define brokers as “a person engaged for others” in setting up household goods hauls on behalf of shippers.
Also, the Public Utilities Commission could order removed online postings by unlicensed household goods movers. Affected haulers could face fines of up to $5,000 each day for false claims.
For Assembly bill status, call 916-319-2856.

4/16/2012 (SB1092):

A bill in the Senate Transportation and Housing Committee revisits a rule that is intended to help dump truck operators with brokers.
Since Jan. 2011, California law requires a broker of construction trucking services to post a bond to ensure payment to a dump truck operator whose services were brokered. The broker also receives certification of the dump truck operator’s permit to operate.
Brokers are required to secure a surety bond of at least $15,000 to ensure payment. Failure to secure a bond is a misdemeanor and could result in as much as a $5,000 fine. However, they are not required to notify others of the bond information.
Sponsored by Sen. Kevin de Leon, D-Los Angeles, SB1092 would require construction trucking brokers to disclose a copy of his or her surety bond.
In addition, if the work has already been completed and the broker has not made payment, the dump truck operator can easily access the bond information to file a claim.
For Senate bill status, call 916-651-4171.

10/10/2011 (SB914):

Gov. Jerry Brown has vetoed a bill that sought to clarify that officers must first obtain a search warrant when there is probable cause to believe a suspect’s phone contains evidence of a crime.
In January, the state Supreme Court ruled that law enforcement officers, without a warrant, can search the contents of a cellphone confiscated from anyone under arrest.
SB914 included a provision to continue to allow officers to search cellphones without a warrant when there is an immediate threat to public safety or the arresting officer.
Nevertheless, Brown said in a veto statement issued Sunday, Oct. 9, the decision should be left to the courts.
“The courts are better suited to resolve the complex and case-specific issues relating to constitutional search-and-seizure protections,” Brown wrote.

9/8/2011:

The Senate voted 31-4 to sign off on Assembly changes to a bill to clarify that officers must first obtain a search warrant when there is probable cause to believe a suspect’s phone contains evidence of a crime. SB914 now moves to Gov. Jerry Brown’s desk.
In January, the state Supreme Court ruled that law enforcement officers, without a warrant, can search the contents of a cellphone confiscated from anyone under arrest.
Sponsored by Sen. Mark Leno, D-San Francisco, SB914 includes a provision that would continue to allow officers to search cellphones without a warrant when there is an immediate threat to public safety or the arresting officer.
For bill status, call 916-651-4171.

8/24/2011:

The Assembly voted unanimously to advance a bill to overturn a ruling from the California Supreme Court on warrantless cellphone searches. The bill now awaits Senate approval of changes before it moves to Gov. Jerry Brown’s desk.
In January, the state Supreme Court ruled that law enforcement officers, without a warrant, can search the contents of a cellphone confiscated from anyone under arrest.
Sponsored by Sen. Mark Leno, D-San Francisco, SB914 clarifies that officers must first obtain a search warrant when there is probable cause to believe a suspect’s phone contains evidence of a crime.
A provision included in the bill would continue to allow officers to search cellphones without a warrant when there is an immediate threat to public safety or the arresting officer.
For bill status, call 916-651-4171.

7/12/2011:

The full Assembly could soon vote on a bill to overturn a ruling from the California Supreme Court on warrantless cellphone searches. If approved, the Senate would need to sign off on changes before SB914 advances to Gov. Jerry Brown’s desk.
In January, the state Supreme Court ruled that law enforcement officers, without a warrant, can search the contents of a cellphone confiscated from anyone under arrest.
Sponsored by Sen. Mark Leno, D-San Francisco, the bill clarifies that officers must first obtain a search warrant when there is probable cause to believe a suspect’s phone contains evidence of a crime.
A provision included in the bill would continue to allow officers to search cellphones without a warrant when there is an immediate threat to public safety or the arresting officer.
For bill status, call 916-651-4171.

1/12/2010 (AB118):

The Assembly Natural Resources Committee voted 6-3 Monday, Jan. 11, to reject a bill that sought to put on hold the nearly four-year-old law that is intended to cap greenhouse gas emissions at 1990 levels by 2020.
Approved in 2006 as AB32, the law allows the California Air Resources Board to create many new regulations. Specific to trucking, the law gave CARB the authority to formulate several trucking regulations aimed at curbing greenhouse gas emissions, including the state’s drayage rule, and truck retrofit rule.
Sponsored by Assemblyman Dan Logue, R-Linda, AB118 called for tying implementation of AB32 to California’s unemployment rate. It sought to suspend the emissions requirement until the unemployment rate is 5.5 percent for a full year.

10/14/2010 (AB1601):

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has signed into law a bill that authorizes judges to revoke a driver’s license for 10 years if they have at least three convictions for driving under the influence within the past decade. The three strike rule in AB1601 takes effect in 15 months.
Existing law limits courts to revoking repeat offenders’ licenses for three years.
Previously AB1601, the new law takes effect Jan. 1, 2012.

7/6/2010 (AB2097):

The Senate Transportation and Housing Committee has unanimously approved a bill that is intended to collect millions from police officers and other state workers, as well as their families, who are able to get around paying parking tickets, toll violations or red-light camera fines. The home addresses are not displayed in the Department of Motor Vehicles’ public-access records.
Currently, California law allows police officers and other state workers to obtain confidential license plates. Intended to protect officials from criminals, the list of jobs included has expanded through the years to include everything from county supervisors and park rangers to museum guards.
Sponsored by Assemblyman Jeff Miller, R-Corona, AB2097 would require confidential plate holders to submit a current employment address. Tickets would be mailed to that location.
The bill would prohibit vehicle registration renewals for confidential plate holders who haven’t paid their tickets. It would also suspend the legal time period to hand out violations until agencies are supplied with the person’s home address.
The bill is awaiting consideration in the Senate Appropriations Committee. The Assembly has already approved it.
For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

6/21/2010:

The Assembly voted unanimously to advance a bill that is intended to collect millions from police officers and other state workers, as well as their families, who are able to get around paying parking tickets, toll violations or red-light camera fines. The home addresses are not displayed in the Department of Motor Vehicles’ public-access records.
Currently, California law allows police officers and other state workers to obtain confidential license plates. Intended to protect officials from criminals, the list of jobs included has expanded through the years to include everything from county supervisors and park rangers to museum guards.
Sponsored by Assemblyman Jeff Miller, R-Corona, AB2097 would require confidential plate holders to submit a current employment address. Tickets would be mailed to that location.
The bill would prohibit vehicle registration renewals for confidential plate holders who haven’t paid their tickets. It would also suspend the legal time period to hand out violations until agencies are supplied with the person’s home address.
The bill is awaiting consideration in the Senate Transportation and Housing Committee. For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

5/5/2010:

A bill in the Assembly Appropriations Committee is intended to collect millions from police officers and other state workers who are able to get around paying parking tickets, toll violations or red-light camera fines. The home addresses are not displayed in the Department of Motor Vehicles’ public-access records.
Currently, California law allows police officers and other state workers to obtain confidential license plates. Intended to protect officials from criminals, the list of jobs included has expanded through the years to include everything from county supervisors and park rangers to museum guards.
Sponsored by Assemblyman Jeff Miller, R-Corona, AB2097 would require confidential plate holders to submit a current employment address. Tickets would be mailed to that location.
The bill would also suspend the legal time period to hand out violations until agencies are supplied with the person’s home address.
For Assembly bill status, call 916-319-2856.

9/3/2010 (AB2144):

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed a bill into law Monday, Aug. 30, to bring California’s commercial driver’s licensing rules in compliance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.
Among the changes in AB2144 are beefed up out-of-service violations. Fines for first offenders will soon be more straightforward. Instead of violators facing a fine ranging from $1,100 to $2,750, they will be responsible for paying at least $2,500 fines. Anyone caught more than once must pay $5,000.
Motor carriers also face greater punishment. Employers convicted of knowingly allowing, requiring, permitting or authorizing a driver in OOS status to get behind the wheel face up to $25,000 fines. The maximum fine has been $11,000.
Repeat offenses within 10 years would result in loss of driving privileges for two years – up from six months. Subsequent offenses within 10 years would double from one year to two years.

8/12/2010:

A bill headed to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger would bring California’s commercial driver’s licensing rules in compliance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.
The Senate voted unanimously to approve the bill. Assembly lawmakers then signed off on changes to the bill clearing the way for it to move to the governor’s desk.
AB2144 includes changes that are sought to beef up out-of-service violations. Fines for first offenders would be more straightforward. Instead of violators facing a fine ranging from $1,100 to $2,750, they would be responsible for paying at least $2,500 fines. Anyone caught more than once would be responsible for paying $5,000.
Motor carriers would also face greater punishment. Employers convicted of knowingly allowing, requiring, permitting or authorizing a driver in OOS status to get behind the wheel would face up to $25,000 fines. Currently, the maximum fine is $11,000.
The length of a driver’s suspension for violating an OOS order would also be ratcheted up. Getting behind the wheel of a truck subject to an OOS order would result in the driver’s license being suspended for six months. State law now authorizes 90-day suspensions.
Repeat offenses within 10 years would result in loss of driving privileges for two years – up from six months. Subsequent offenses within 10 years would double from one year to two years.
For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

7/27/2010:

The Senate Transportation Committee has unanimously approved a bill that would bring California’s commercial driver’s licensing rules in compliance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.
Among the changes sought in AB2144 are beefing up out-of-service violations. Fines for first offenders would be more straightforward. Instead of violators facing a fine ranging from $1,100 to $2,750, they would be responsible for paying $2,500 fines. Anyone caught more than once would be responsible for paying $5,000.
Motor carriers would also face greater punishment. Employers convicted of knowingly allowing, requiring, permitting or authorizing a driver in OOS status to get behind the wheel would face up to $25,000 fines. Currently, the maximum fine is $11,000.
The length of a driver’s suspension for violating an OOS order would also be ratcheted up. Getting behind the wheel of a truck subject to an OOS order would result in the driver’s license being suspended for six months. State law now authorizes 90-day suspensions.
Repeat offenses within 10 years would result in loss of driving privileges for two years – up from six months. Subsequent offenses within 10 years would double from one year to two years.
The bill is awaiting clearance to the Senate floor. If approved there, it would head back to the Assembly for approval of changes before moving to the governor’s desk.
For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

6/17/2010:

The Assembly voted unanimously to approve a bill that would bring California’s commercial driver’s licensing rules in compliance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. It has moved to the Senate for further consideration.
AB2144 would beef up out-of-service violations. Fines for first offenders would be more straightforward. Instead of violators facing a fine ranging from $1,100 to $2,750, they would be responsible for paying $2,500 fines. Anyone caught more than once would be responsible for paying $5,000.
Motor carriers would also face greater punishment. Employers convicted of knowingly allowing, requiring, permitting or authorizing a driver in OOS status to get behind the wheel would face up to $25,000 fines. Currently, the maximum fine is $11,000.
The length of a driver’s suspension for violating an OOS order would also be ratcheted up. Getting behind the wheel of a truck subject to an OOS order would result in the driver’s license being suspended for six months. State law now authorizes 90-day suspensions.
Repeat offenses within 10 years would result in loss of driving privileges for two years – up from six months. Subsequent offenses within 10 years would double from one year to two years.
The bill is in the Senate Transportation and Housing Committee. For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

10/13/2010 (AB909):

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has vetoed a bill that would have taken less of a bite out of offenders’ pocketbooks. The fine for rolling through a red light while turning right would have been reduced to $35 – about one-third of the existing $100 fine.
But that’s not all. If signed into law, AB909 would have lowered the total ticket amount, which includes additional fines and penalties, from about $450 to about $220.
Schwarzenegger said in his veto statement that “a driver running a red-light, whether they are traveling straight, or turning right, makes a very dangerous traffic movement that endangers the nearby motoring public, bicyclists, and pedestrians.”
He also said that lowering the fine amount would send the wrong message.

9/7/2010:

A bill sent to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger would take less of a bite out of offenders’ pocketbooks. The fine for rolling through a red light while turning right would be reduced to $35 – about one-third of the existing $100 fine.
The Assembly voted 63-11 to sign off on Senate changes to the bill clearing the way for it to move to the governor’s desk.
Sponsored by Assemblyman Jerry Hill, D-San Mateo, AB909 would lower the total ticket amount, which includes additional fines and penalties, from about $450 to about $220.
For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

8/13/2010 (SB1156):

The full Senate could soon vote on a bill that would make available $20 million for drayage trucks that have yet to comply with the California Air Resources Board’s drayage truck regulation. If approved by the Senate, the bill would advance to the Assembly.
A change made to SB1156 in recent days would route funds from the enhanced fleet modernization subaccount to the Air Resources Board for distribution. Previously, funds were to come from the state’s Air Quality Improvement Fund.
Until Jan. 1, 2013, funding would be available for fleets with three or fewer trucks that service the state’s ports and rail yards. Funding could only be used for the purchase of equipment that meets the 2007 model-year or newer engine standards.
For bill status, call 916-651-4171.

7/9/2010:

The Senate Transportation and Housing Committee unanimously approved a bill that would make available $20 million for drayage trucks that have yet to comply with the California Air Resources Board’s drayage truck regulation.
Sponsored by Sen. Gil Cedillo, D-Los Angeles, SB1156 would route funds from the state’s Air Quality Improvement Fund to the Air Resources Board for distribution.
Until Jan. 1, 2013, funding would be available for fleets with three or fewer trucks that service the state’s ports and rail yards. Funding could only be used for the purchase of equipment that meets the 2007 model-year or newer engine standards.
The bill has been routed to the Senate Appropriations Committee on its way to the Senate floor for further consideration.
For Senate bill status, call 916-651-4171.

7/14/2010 (SB1362):

The Assembly Transportation Committee voted 11-1 to advance a bill that would put in place statewide standards for the installation and operation of red-light cameras. The bill’s next stop is the Assembly floor. Senate lawmakers previously approved it.
Sponsored by Sen. Joe Simitian, D-Palo Alto, SB1362 is intended to help ensure that communities use the enforcement tool to improve safety, not to fill coffers. It would affect automated traffic enforcement systems installed after Jan. 1, 2011.
Also included in the bill is a provision that would require signs to be posted where cameras are installed.
For Senate bill status, call 916-651-4171.

7/20/2010 (SB1475):

The Assembly Transportation Committee recently voted to advance a bill that would boost the penalty for calling or texting on a handheld cell phone.
Sponsored by Sen. Joe Simitian, D-Palo Alto, SB1475 calls for offenders to pay $50 for breaking the rule – up from $20. Repeat offenders would face $100 fines – double the existing $50 fine. Local county fees included can result in penalties that are more than triple the amount.
Law enforcement officers could also stop teen motorists for any suspected use of wireless devices, handheld or hands-free. Officers wouldn’t have to see the device in use to make a stop.
Awaiting clearance to the Assembly floor for a final vote, if SB1475 passes that test it would move back to the Senate for approval of changes before heading to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.
The Senate attached a provision to add one point to offenders driving records’ on their second offense.
Also, the Department of Motor Vehicles would be required to add more questions on cell phone use or texting on the driver exam. Currently, there are only two questions in the rotation of 360.
For Senate bill status, call 916-651-4171.

10/4/2010 (AB145):

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed into law a bill that requires a broker of construction trucking services to post a bond to ensure payment to a dump truck operator whose services were brokered. The broker also receives certification of the dump truck operator’s permit to operate.
Previously AB145, the new law requires brokers to secure a surety bond of at least $15,000 to ensure payment. Failure to secure a bond would be a misdemeanor and result in as much as a $5,000 fine. It takes effect Jan. 1, 2011.
In addition, a rebuttable presumption would be created in favor of the dump truck operator if there is a civil action filed due to lack of payment. A rebuttable presumption is an assumption of fact unless the broker, in this instance, comes forward in court to contest it and prove otherwise.
Motor carriers are also responsible for immediately notifying the broker if the Department of Motor Vehicles suspends or revokes their motor carrier permit.

8/13/2010:

The Assembly has signed off on Senate changes to a bill that would require a broker of construction trucking services to post a bond to ensure payment to a dump truck operator whose services were brokered. The broker would also receive certification of the dump truck operator’s permit to operate.
AB145 now moves ahead to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s desk.
Brokers would be required to secure a surety bond of at least $15,000 to ensure payment. Failure to secure a bond would be a misdemeanor and result in as much as a $5,000 fine.
In addition, a rebuttable presumption would be created in favor of the dump truck operator if there is a civil action filed due to lack of payment. A rebuttable presumption is an assumption of fact unless the broker, in this instance, comes forward in court to contest it and prove otherwise.
Motor carriers would also be responsible for immediately notifying the broker if the Department of Motor Vehicles suspends or revokes their motor carrier permit.
For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

8/11/2010:

The Senate voted unanimously Monday, Aug. 9, to approve a bill that would require a broker of construction trucking services to post a bond to ensure payment to a dump truck operator whose services were brokered. The broker would also receive certification of the dump truck operator’s permit to operate.
AB145 awaits Assembly approval of changes before heading to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s desk.
Brokers would be required to secure a surety bond of at least $15,000 to ensure payment. Failure to secure a bond would be a misdemeanor and result in as much as a $5,000 fine.
In addition, a rebuttable presumption would be created in favor of the dump truck operator if there is a civil action filed due to lack of payment. A rebuttable presumption is an assumption of fact unless the broker, in this instance, comes forward in court to contest it and prove otherwise.
Motor carriers would also be responsible for immediately notifying the broker if the Department of Motor Vehicles suspends or revokes their motor carrier permit.
For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

6/17/2010:

The Assembly has advanced a bill to the Senate that would require a broker of construction trucking services to post a bond to ensure payment to a dump truck operator whose services were brokered. The broker would also receive certification of the dump truck operator’s permit to operate.
Sponsored by Assemblyman Kevin de Leon, D-Los Angeles, AB145 would require brokers to secure a surety bond of at least $15,000 to ensure payment. If brokers fail to pay the dump truck operator by the 25th day of the month after services were rendered they would face a possible $15,000 fine.
A rebuttable presumption would also be created in favor of the dump truck operator if there is a civil action filed due to lack of payment. A rebuttable presumption is an assumption of fact unless the broker, in this instance, comes forward in court to contest it and prove otherwise.
In addition, motor carriers would be responsible for immediately notifying the broker if the Department of Motor Vehicles suspends or revokes their motor carrier permit.
The bill is in the Senate Appropriations Committee. For bill status, call 916-319-2856

7/1/2010 (AB1772):

The Senate Transportation and Housing Committee has unanimously approved a bill that would increase the maximum gross vehicle weight limit for large trucks equipped with idle reduction technology. Trucks equipped with auxiliary power units would be authorized to weigh up to an additional 400 pounds.
Sponsored by Assemblyman Tony Mendoza, D-Norwalk, AB1772 has advanced to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration. The Assembly has already approved it.
According to an analysis of the bill, the added per axle weight limit would have a significant effect on pavement deterioration. It is estimated to eventually raise state road maintenance costs by more than $1 million annually.
For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

6/22/2010:

The Assembly has voted in favor of a bill that would increase the maximum gross vehicle weight limit for large trucks equipped with idle reduction technology. Trucks equipped with auxiliary power units would be authorized to weigh up to an additional 400 pounds.
Sponsored by Assemblyman Tony Mendoza, D-Norwalk, AB1772 has advanced to the Senate Transportation and Housing Committee for further consideration.
According to an analysis of the bill, the added per axle weight limit would have a significant effect on pavement deterioration. It is estimated to eventually raise state road maintenance costs by more than $1 million annually.
For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

10/18/2010 (AB2098):

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed into law a bill that is intended to clear any legal hurdles for Riverside County’s project to build toll lanes on California’s 91 Freeway.
Previously AB2098, the new law allows the Riverside County Transportation Commission to use a new way to complete major expansion on state Route 91.
The project to convert the car pool lanes into express toll lanes and a general use lane in each direction from the Orange County line to Interstate 15 was approved for a process called “design-build” by the California Transportation Commission in the spring.
The design-build process allows contractors to submit plans to design and construct each project. Typically, one firm designs a highway and another builds it, with the two tasks bid separately.

9/2/2010:

The Senate unanimously approved the bill Monday, Aug. 30, that is intended to clear any legal hurdles for Riverside County’s project to build toll lanes on California’s 91 Freeway. The bill now moves to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s desk. Assembly lawmakers already approved it.
Sponsored by Assemblyman Jeff Miller, R-Corona, AB2098 would allow the Riverside County Transportation Commission to use a new way to complete major expansion on state Route 91.
The project to convert the car pool lanes into express toll lanes and a general use lane in each direction from the Orange County line to Interstate 15 was approved for a process called “design-build” by the California Transportation Commission in the spring. Numerous on- and off-ramps will also be expanded.
The design-build process allows contractors to submit plans to design and construct each project. Typically, one firm designs a highway and another builds it, with the two tasks bid separately.
For Assembly bill status, call 916-319-2856.

7/16/2010:

The Assembly Transportation Committee unanimously approved a bill that is intended to clear any legal hurdles for Riverside County’s project to build toll lanes on state Route 91.
Sponsored by Assemblyman Jeff Miller, R-Corona, AB2098 would allow the Riverside County Transportation Commission to use the design-build process to complete major expansion on the 91 Freeway.
The project to add toll lanes and a general use lane in each direction from the Orange County line to Interstate 15 was approved for design-build by the California Transportation Commission in the spring. Numerous on- and off-ramps will also be expanded.
With a price tag of $1.5 billion, the project is slated to be open to traffic in 2016. The cost to complete the project is expected to be paid for by selling bonds. Investors would get their money back through tolls.
The bill is awaiting transfer to the Assembly floor. For Assembly bill status, call 916-319-2856.

10/25/2010 (AB2567):

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed into law a bill that authorizes the installation of automated ticketing machines on street sweepers.
AB2567 allows local governments to contract with private companies for the installation and maintenance of the ticket cameras. The cameras will be used to identify vehicles that remain on streets “during designated street-sweeping hours.”
Photos will record the date and time of the violation. Citations will be mailed to the owners of vehicles.
California law already allows the city and county of San Francisco to issue citations based on photos snapped of parking violations in transit-only lanes. Automated enforcement can also be used at rail or rail transit signals and crossing gates. In addition, red-light cameras are allowed at intersections.
Violators will be allowed to request an administrative hearing with the processing agency within 21 days.

9/9/2010:

A bill on Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s desk would authorize the installation of automated ticketing machines on street sweepers.
Assembly lawmakers signed off on Senate changes to a bill that would allow local governments to contract with private companies for the installation and maintenance of the ticket cameras placed on street sweepers. Cameras would be used to identify vehicles that remain on streets “during designated street-sweeping hours.”
Sponsored by Assemblyman Steven Bradford, D-Gardena, AB2567 would
Photos would record the date and time of the violation. Tickets would be mailed to drivers.
California law already allows the city and county of San Francisco to issue citations based on photos snapped of parking violations in transit-only lanes. Automated enforcement can also be used at rail or rail transit signals and crossing gates. In addition, red-light cameras are allowed at intersections.
The bill would allow violators to request an administrative hearing with the processing agency within 21 days.
For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

3/30/2010 (ABx8 6):

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed a budget bill that swaps certain fuel taxes.
Intended to help the state eat into a $20 billion budget deficit, the tax swap changes how much truckers and others will pay at the fuel pump.
ABx8 6 puts an end to collection of a 6 percent sales tax on gasoline. It will be replaced with an additional 17.3 cent per gallon applied on the excise tax. For diesel, the sales tax will increase 1.75 percent while the excise tax will be reduced by 4.4 cents per gallon.
The changes sought in Sacramento would allow some accounting maneuvers to put more money into the state’s general fund. California law now limits sales tax revenue from fuel purchases to be used solely for transportation improvements – 20 percent of which is dedicated to public transit. Excise tax revenue can be applied to the general fund.

3/11/2010:

California lawmakers have forwarded a budget bill to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger that would swap certain fuel taxes.
Intended to help the state eat into a $20 billion budget deficit, the tax swap approved by the Democratic-led Legislature is modeled after Schwarzenegger’s proposal to change how much truckers and others pay at the fuel pump.
The fuel tax proposal forwarded to the Republican governor’s desk would put an end to collection of a 6 percent sales tax on gasoline. It would be replaced with an additional 17.3 cent per gallon applied on the excise tax. For diesel, the sales tax would increase 1.75 percent while the excise tax would be reduced by 4.4 cents per gallon.
Schwarzenegger has called for completely doing away with the sales tax on fuel purchases. However, his plan would increase the excise tax by 10.8 cents per gallon to 28.8 cents. There also would be annual increases in the excise tax during the next decade.
The changes sought in Sacramento would allow some accounting maneuvers to put more money into the state’s general fund. California law now limits sales tax revenue from fuel purchases to be used solely for transportation improvements – 20 percent of which is dedicated to public transit. Excise tax revenue can be applied to the general fund.
Because public transit operations would lose out on sales tax revenue from gas purchases, a provision included in the budget bill – ABx8 6 – calls for cushioning the blow with $400 million in the next fiscal year for transit systems statewide.
For bill status, call 916-319-2856.

10/11/2010 (SB1268):

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed into law a bill that is touted as protecting “a person’s right not to be tracked while driving.” It takes effect Jan. 1, 2011.
Previously SB1268, the new law prohibits transportation agencies, such as Caltrans, from selling or sharing personal data. It also requires agencies to purge the data when it is no longer needed. In addition, it ensures that FasTrak subscribers are given notice of the privacy practices affecting them.
The requirements also apply to other toll collection systems.
Currently, the system creates a travel and billing record for drivers who pass a FasTrak-equipped toll booth. For truckers, the system is used to pluck $11.25 from their accounts each time they cross one of seven state-owned Bay Area bridges.
Anyone who has their personal information sold or improperly released would be able to sue to recover a minimum of $2,500 in damages.

8/27/2010:

The Assembly voted 57-13 to approve the bill that is touted as protecting “a person’s right not to be tracked while driving.” Senators signed off on changes, which cleared the way for the bill to move to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s desk.
Sponsored by Sen. Joe Simitian, D-Palo Alto, SB1268 would prohibit transportation agencies, such as Caltrans, from selling or sharing personal data. It also requires agencies to purge the data when it is no longer needed. In addition, it ensures that FasTrak subscribers are given notice of the privacy practices affecting them.
The requirements also apply to other toll collection systems.
Currently, the system creates a travel and billing record for drivers who pass a FasTrak-equipped toll booth. For truckers, the system is used to pluck $11.25 from their accounts each time they cross one of seven state-owned Bay Area bridges.
Anyone who has their personal information sold or improperly released would be able to sue to recover a minimum of $2,500 in damages.
For bill status, call 916-651-4171.

10/1/2010 (SB1402):

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed a bill into law Tuesday, Sept. 28, requiring a much-maligned California regulatory agency more effectively communicate with the businesses it regulates. It took effect immediately.
Previously SB1402, the new law demands the California Air Resources Board to explain how it determined a penalty levied against a business, including trucking operations, the reason for the violation and the specific code section violated.

9/27/2010:

A bill atop Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s desk would demand that a much-maligned California regulatory agency more effectively communicate with the businesses it regulates.
Sponsored by Sen. Bob Dutton, Rancho Cucamonga, SB1402 would require the California Air Resources Board to explain how it determined a penalty levied against a business, including trucking operations, the reason for the violation and the specific code section violated.
For bill status, call 916-651-4171.

10/7/2010 (SB949):

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed a bill into law that is intent on making sure local governments don’t cut out a source of revenue for the state government.
Intended to end a “patchwork of laws” for drivers cited for moving violations, the new law prohibits local law enforcement in cities that include Long Beach, Oakland and Alameda County from issuing their own tickets for certain traffic violations already covered under state law. SB949 takes effect next summer.
Local authorities, who already get a share of ticket fines, will be prohibited from enacting or enforcing an ordinance involving violations covered by the state vehicle code, such as speeding and running red lights. Cities and counties could continue to issue administrative tickets for violating posted signs, such as stop signs.
Administrative tickets are much cheaper than tickets issued under the vehicle code. In certain instances, the fine can be less than half the amount of a state-issued ticket.

9/8/2010:

A bill on its way to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s desk is intent on making sure local governments don’t cut out a source of revenue for the state government.
The Senate voted unanimously to sign off on Assembly changes to a bill that would prohibit local law enforcement in cities that include Long Beach, Oakland and Alameda County from issuing their own tickets for certain traffic violations already covered under state law.
Sponsored by Sen. Jenny Oropeza, D-Long Beach, SB949 would prohibit local authorities, who already get a share of ticket fines, from enacting or enforcing an ordinance involving violations covered by the state vehicle code, such as reckless driving and running red lights. Cities and counties could continue to issue administrative tickets for violating posted signs, such as speed limits and stop signs.
Administrative tickets are much cheaper than tickets issued under the vehicle code. In certain instances, the fine can be less than half the amount of a state-issued ticket.
For bill status, call 916-651-4171.

1/4/2010:

Assemblyman Jerry Hill, D-San Mateo, wants to keep the worst of the worst offenders of the state’s drunken driving law off the road for good.
Existing law takes into account DUI convictions from the past decade when determining license suspensions. Licenses are only revoked for injuring or killing someone.
According to figures from Hill’s office, more than 34,000 people statewide have at least three DUI convictions.
Hill wants to implement a three strikes rule. It would give judges the discretion to revoke someone’s license permanently after a third DUI conviction. He also wants to remove a provision from California law that allows convictions to be erased from offenders driving records after 10 years.
Hill cites two individuals with nine DUIs each. Because their convictions were spread out more than 10 years they were allowed to regain their licenses. For one of the men who got his eighth DUI, it was treated as his third. That driver got his license back and was arrested shortly thereafter for driving drunk.
“Lawmakers need to protect innocent bystanders from individuals with multiple DUI convictions who are likely to re-offend,” Hill said in a statement.
Critics of the bill say it would result in more unlicensed drivers and uninsured wrecks.
Hill’s effort can be considered during the regular session that opened Monday, Jan. 4.

2/12/2010:

A controversial proposal by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger to retool the state’s red-light cameras has stalled.
As part of the governor’s plan to terminate a $20 billion deficit in California’s two-year state budget, he included a proposal to generate more money through modifying the state’s traffic cameras. That idea took a hit in the Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Committee.
The nonpartisan Legislative Analyst’s Office spoke in favor of the proposal.
“Overall we think the proposal is a good one. It would create an opportunity for the locals to generate some revenue and the state to generate some revenue,” LAO analyst Drew Soderborg told committee members.
Despite the endorsement of the LAO, lawmakers were not convinced speed cameras are the way to go.
Schwarzenegger’s plan calls for authorizing local governments to dole out pricey tickets for speeding through intersections with red-light cameras posted. Violators would face as much as $325 fines.
The administration estimates the speeding tickets from 500 cameras statewide would generate about $338 million a year for such purposes as courthouse security. Revenue would be split between local governments (15 percent) and the state (85 percent).
Opponents, including OOIDA, question the claims that cameras are solely intended to keep people safe.
“The fact that this effort is included in the governor’s budget proposal, as opposed to a safety bill, speaks volumes as to the real motivation for the cameras,” said OOIDA Executive Vice President Todd Spencer.
Similar sentiment was provided by Senate Transportation Chairman Alan Lowenthal, D-Long Beach. He called the proposal a “terrible idea” driven by the pursuit of money, instead of enhancing safety.
“This is a cynical attempt to generate revenue without dealing with the policy,” Lowenthal told lawmakers.

1/20/2010:

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s plan to terminate a $20 billion deficit in California’s state budget includes a change in how much truckers and others pay at the fuel pump. His proposed two-year budget also includes generating more money through retooling red-light cameras.
The governor’s $118.8 billion state spending plan avoids general tax increases but some services would suffer cuts. In an effort to close a $20 billion deficit until June 2011, Schwarzenegger is proposing changes that include altering the taxes that consumers pay when fueling.
One notable change would remove California from the list of nine states to apply a sales tax to fuel purchases. In exchange, the excise tax on fuel would be increased.
The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association was opposed to California’s decision to implement the sales tax on fuel purchases. OOIDA believes taxes on fuel should be on the pump and dedicated specifically to highways.
The tax swap would save consumers about 16 cents per gallon with the elimination of the 6 percent sales tax. However, the excise tax would increase by 10.8 cents per gallon to 28.8 cents. There also would be annual increases in the excise tax during the next decade.
The Schwarzenegger administration says the switch would help close the budget gap by doing away with rules that reserve most of the sales tax for transit. That would help boost revenue for the general fund, which they say has suffered because of the current setup.
Administration officials say the tax change makes sense because fuel price increases have forced consumers to spend more money at the pump, which leaves less for spending on other goods whose sales taxes are routed to the general fund.
The administration also touts the benefit of reducing the hit consumers take on taxes paid by $976 million.
Initially, state finance officials estimate the switch would save consumers about 5 cents per gallon. But that margin would slowly slip away. By 2020, the plan calls for the existing 18-cent-per-gallon tax to increase to 34 cents.
Critics say the change would result in fewer dollars available for already cash-strapped schools and transit systems.
Others say it is highly likely that fuel prices will continue to increase and the state will lose even more money without a sales tax, which is based on the cost of fuel. They say the excise tax cannot make up for the lost sales tax revenue.
Also on Schwarzenegger’s agenda is authorizing local governments to dole out pricey tickets for speeding through intersections with red-light cameras posted. Violators would face $325 fines.
The administration estimates the speeding tickets from 500 cameras statewide would generate about $338 million a year for such purposes as courthouse security. Revenue would be split between local governments (15 percent) and the state (85 percent).
Opponents, including OOIDA, question the claims that cameras are solely intended to keep people safe.
“The fact that this effort is included in the governor’s budget proposal, as opposed to a safety bill, speaks volumes as to the real motivation for the cameras,” said OOIDA Executive Vice President Todd Spencer.

3/30/2016 (SB11):

A bill is likely dead in the House that sought to eliminate annual transfers of $15 million for transit projects from fee revenue collected from truckers and other drivers. The Senate previously approved it.
The Colorado Department of Transportation receives about $200 million each year from fee revenue. State transit related projects receive $10 million of that amount and local transit projects get $5 million.
SB11 called for redirecting the money allotted for transit to roads. Specifically, the amount available for road safety projects each year would be raised by $10 million. Allocations to counties would increase by $2.75 million and the allotment to municipalities would increase by $2.25 million.

2/25/2016:

The House Transportation and Energy Committee voted to kill a bill to eliminate annual transfers of $15 million for transit projects from fee revenue collected from truckers and other drivers. The Senate previously approved it.
The Colorado Department of Transportation receives about $200 million each year from fee revenue. State transit related projects receive $10 million of that amount and local transit projects get $5 million.
SB11 would redirect the money allotted for transit to roads. Specifically, the amount available for road safety projects each year would be raised by $10 million. Allocations to counties would increase by $2.75 million and the allotment to municipalities would increase by $2.25 million.

2/11/2016:

The Senate voted 18-16 to advance a bill that would eliminate annual transfers of $15 million for transit projects from fee revenue collected from truckers and other drivers. The bill now moves to the House.
The Colorado Department of Transportation receives about $200 million each year from fee revenue. State transit related projects receive $10 million of that amount and local transit projects get $5 million.
Sponsored by Sen. Tim Neville, R-Littleton, SB11 would redirect the money allotted for transit to roads. Specifically, the amount available for road safety projects each year would be raised by $10 million. Allocations to counties would increase by $2.75 million and the allotment to municipalities would increase by $2.25 million.
The bill awaits consideration in the House Transportation and Energy Committee.

6/17/2015 (HB1098):

Gov. John Hickenlooper vetoed a bill that received bipartisan support at the statehouse aimed at restricting the use of red-light and speed cameras.
The governor did say, however, that he supports changes being made to photo enforcement procedures.
“While not always popular, when used correctly they make roads safer,” the governor wrote in his veto messages on the bills.
Colorado has 10 communities that employ red-light and/or speed cameras to issue citations.
HB1098 called for forbidding the use of red-light and speed cameras unless voters authorize their use.

6/17/2015 (SB276):

Gov. John Hickenlooper vetoed a bill that sought to ban the use of ticket cameras in the state.
The governor said SB276 went “too far.”
Instead, he told state lawmakers he would support efforts to limit the use of cameras to school zones, highway work zones, and areas with high accident rates. He also called for fine revenue to be earmarked solely for traffic safety improvements and enforcement.

6/23/2015 (HB1175):

Gov. John Hickenlooper signed into law a bill to have a special panel of state lawmakers study whether to require personal vehicles to have snow tires or tire chains during certain times of the year while traveling along a stretch of Interstate 70 in the state’s high country. Specifically, the roadway affected stretches 130 miles from Morrison in the Denver area to Dotsero near Glenwood Springs.
The state’s chain law now applies to every state and federal highway, including interstates, under certain weather conditions. For noncommercial vehicles, there are two levels of chain law: “chains or adequate snow tires required” or “chains only.”
As introduced, the House-approved bill called for setting up a pilot program to require noncommercial vehicles to carry chains, have four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, or tires with 1/8-inch tread depth while driving on the stretch of road from Nov. 1 to May 15.
Violators would face the same fine as truck drivers.
The Senate later amended HB1173 to study a possible requirement for motorists to use chains or snow tires.
The Transportation Legislation Review Committee must submit their findings to state lawmakers by Feb. 1, 2016.

5/4/2015:

An amended bill headed to the governor’s desk would study a possible requirement for motorists to use chains or snow tires.
The state’s chain law now applies to every state and federal highway, including interstates, under certain weather conditions. For noncommercial vehicles, there are two levels of chain law: “chains or adequate snow tires required” or “chains only.”
As introduced, HB1173 called for setting up a pilot program to require noncommercial vehicles to carry chains, have four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, or tires with 1/8-inch tread depth while driving on I-70 between Morrison and Dotsero from Nov. 1 to May 15.
Violators would face the same fine as truck drivers. Motorists could face $100 fines when they are pulled over for traffic infractions along the 126-mile stretch. Incidents that result in lane closures on the affected portion of interstate could result in $500 fines.

4/17/2015:

The Senate voted 23-12 on Tuesday, April 14, to approve an amended bill to study a possible requirement for motorists to use chains or snow tires.
The state’s chain law now applies to every state and federal highway, including interstates, under certain weather conditions. For noncommercial vehicles, there are two levels of chain law: “chains or adequate snow tires required” or “chains only.”
As introduced, the House-approved bill called for setting up a pilot program to require noncommercial vehicles to carry chains, have four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, or tires with 1/8-inch tread depth while driving on I-70 between Morrison and Dotsero from Nov. 1 to May 15.
Violators would face the same fine as truck drivers. Motorists could face $100 fines when they are pulled over for traffic infractions along the 126-mile stretch. Incidents that result in lane closures on the affected portion of interstate could result in $500 fines.
HB1173 now heads back to the House for consideration of changes. If the two chambers cannot agree on wording in the bill it could head to a conference committee made up of select House and Senate members.

3/6/2015:

The House voted 43-21 on Friday, March 6, to advance a bill that would set up a pilot program to require noncommercial vehicles to carry chains, have four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, or tires with 4/32-inch tread depth while driving on I-70 between Morrison and Dotsero from Nov. 1 to May 15.
Sponsored by Rep. Bob Rankin, R-Carbondale, and Rep. Diane Mitsch Bush, D-Steamboat Springs, HB1173 now moves to the Senate for further consideration.
The state’s chain law now applies to every state and federal highway, including interstates, under certain weather conditions. For noncommercial vehicles, there are two levels of chain law: “chains or adequate snow tires required” or “chains only.”
If the bill is signed into law, violators would face the same fine as truck drivers. Motorists could face $100 fines when they are pulled over for traffic infractions along the 126-mile stretch. Incidents that result in lane closures on the affected portion of interstate could result in $500 fines.
The Colorado Department of Transportation would be responsible for notifying the public of the new requirements via signage, as well as “other appropriate means.”
The bill states if the pilot program is determined to be a success, “the general assembly intends to expand the program with future legislation to cover other problematic highways.”

7/16/2015 (SB272):

The House State, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee killed a bill that called for renewing a bond sale for transportation work that is set to be paid off next year. The Senate previously approved it.
First sold in 1999, the bonds have been used to fund more than two dozen other major projects.
SB272 would have continued to rely on the bonds to get needed road and bridge work done over the next 20 years.
The bill included a list of more than 50 priority projects that would benefit from the bond extension.
Voters would have been given the final say on the bond sale during the November 2015 election.

4/23/2015:

A bill in the Senate Transportation Committee would renew a bond sale for transportation work that is set to be paid off next year.
First sold in 1999, the bonds have been used to fund more than two dozen other major projects.
Sponsored by Sen. Randy Baumgardner, R-Hot Sulphur Springs, SB272 would continue to rely on the bonds to get needed road and bridge work done over the next 20 years.
The bill includes a list of more than 50 priority projects that would benefit from the bond extension.
If the bill makes it through the statehouse and gets the governor’s signature it would be placed on the state’s November 2015 ballot.

3/6/2015 (HB1134):

The House approved a bill to revise the state’s rule on heavy-duty vehicle emissions testing. It now moves to the Senate.
Colorado law now exempts trucks with gross vehicle weight in excess of 26,000 pounds from emissions testing until the fourth model year.
HB1134 would extend the exemption to six years for 2014 and newer model years.
A fiscal note attached to the bill estimates the change would result in the loss of $3,730 yearly for the state.
The bill is in the Senate Transportation Committee.

7/31/2015 (HB1285):

A new law addresses the use of body-worn devices by law enforcement.
Previously HB1285, the new law offers grants for departments to purchase cameras and set up a study group to recommend policies for their use.

5/8/2015:

The General Assembly has sent a bill to the governor that covers the use of police body-worn cameras. HB1285 would offer grants to for departments to purchase cameras and set up a study group to recommend policies for their use.

6/17/2010:

Gov. Bill Ritter has signed a bill into law that makes available tax incentives for local trucking operations.
Previously HB1285, the new law allows the trucking industry to qualify for enterprise-zones and sales-tax credits. However, the incentives won’t go into effect until July 1, 2011.
The incentives provide a prorated sales tax refund for companies that are based on the number of vehicle-miles driven in Colorado. Also, it offers a 1.5 percent investment tax credit for new truck purchases in an enterprise zone.
To pay for the tax incentives, fines for “egregiously overweight trucks” will be increased to a comparable level with surrounding states.
The new law clarifies that vehicles registered in Colorado, then later registered in another state before returning to Colorado for a subsequent registration are not on the hook for taxes and fees due while it was registered outside the state.

6/10/2014 (HB1021):

A new law boosts the deterrent for drivers of large vehicles who illegally attempt to cross Independence Pass. It takes effect Aug. 6.
Colorado law prohibits oversize and overweight vehicles – including vehicles or combination vehicles longer than 35 feet, regardless of size – from using the pass that connects Twin Lakes and Aspen. There are signs on each side of the pass, which is typically open for six months each year from Memorial Day through mid-November, indicating the restriction.
Violators face fines of $500.
Previously HB1021, the new law boosts the punishment for prohibited trucks and RVs found on state Highway 82 between U.S. 24 and the city of Aspen. Fines would increase from $500 to $2,000. Violations that result in closures would increase the fine to $2,500.

3/10/2014:

The Senate voted 22-12 to send a bill to Gov. John Hickenlooper that would boost the deterrent for drivers of large vehicles who illegally attempt to cross Independence Pass. House lawmakers already approved the bill on a 41-23 vote.
Colorado law prohibits oversize and overweight vehicles – including vehicles or combination vehicles longer than 35 feet, regardless of size – from using the pass that connects Twin Lakes and Aspen. There are signs on each side of the pass, which is typically open for six months each year from Memorial Day through mid-November, indicating the restriction.
Violators face fines of $500.
HB1021 would boost the punishment for prohibited trucks and RVs found on state Highway 82 between U.S. 24 and the city of Aspen. Fines would increase from $500 to $1,000. Violations that result in closures would increase the fine to $1,500.

3/3/2014:

A bill awaiting a final Senate floor vote would boost the deterrent for drivers of large vehicles who illegally attempt to cross Independence Pass.
Colorado law prohibits oversize and overweight vehicles – including vehicles or combination vehicles longer than 35 feet, regardless of size – from using the pass that connects Twin Lakes and Aspen. There are signs on each side of the pass, which is typically open for six months each year from Memorial Day through mid-November, indicating the restriction.
Violators face fines of $500.
HB1021 would boost the punishment for prohibited trucks and RVs found on state Highway 82 between U.S. 24 and the city of Aspen. Fines would increase from $500 to $1,000. Violations that result in closures would increase the fine to $1,500.
A provision to add two license suspension points was removed in the House.
If approved on the Senate floor, the bill would move to the governor’s desk. House lawmakers already approved it on a 41-23 vote.

2/18/2014:

A bill in the Senate Transportation Committee would boost the deterrent for certain large vehicles on Independence Pass. House lawmakers already approved it.
Colorado law prohibits oversize and overweight vehicles – including vehicles or combination vehicles longer than 35 feet, regardless of size – from using the pass that connects Twin Lakes and Aspen. There are signs on each side of the pass, which is typically open for six months each year from Memorial Day through mid-November, indicating the restriction.
HB1021 would boost the punishment for prohibited trucks and RVs found on state Highway 82 between U.S. 24 and the city of Aspen. Fines would increase from $500 to $2,000. Violations that result in closures would increase the fine to $2,500 and two license suspension points.

2/11/2014:

The House voted Monday, Feb. 10, to approve a bill that would boost the deterrent for certain large vehicles on Independence Pass. It now moves to the Senate.
Colorado law prohibits oversize and overweight vehicles – including vehicles or combination vehicles longer than 35 feet, regardless of size – from using the pass that connects Twin Lakes and Aspen. There are signs on each side of the pass, which is typically open for six months each year from Memorial Day through mid-November, indicating the restriction.
HB1021 would boost the punishment for prohibited trucks and RVs found on state Highway 82 between U.S. 24 and the city of Aspen. Fines would increase from $500 to $2,500.
The bill awaits assignment to committee in the Senate.

2/10/2014:

A bill awaiting consideration on the House floor would boost the deterrent for certain large vehicles on Independence Pass.
Colorado law prohibits oversize and overweight vehicles – including vehicles or combination vehicles longer than 35 feet, regardless of size – from using the pass that connects Twin Lakes and Aspen. There are signs on each side of the pass, which is typically open for six months each year from Memorial Day through mid-November, indicating the restriction.
HB1021 would boost the punishment for prohibited trucks and RVs found on state Highway 82 between U.S. 24 and the city of Aspen. Fines would increase from $500 to $2,500.

3/31/2014 (HB1065):

Gov. John Hickenlooper signed a bill into law to forbid indemnification clauses in trucking contracts. The clauses are set up to protect shippers or hold them harmless from anything that happens with a shipment.
Previously HB1065, the new rule outlaws provisions in contracts that provide for shippers to be indemnified for losses caused by their own negligence and would invalidate them.
Affected contracts in Colorado are defined as “a contract, agreement, or understanding, whether written or oral, express or implied,” between a motor carrier and a shipper covering the transportation of property for hire by the motor carrier, entry on property to load, unload, or transport property.
The protection would not apply to intermodal chassis, or other intermodal equipment.

3/7/2014:

Senate lawmakers voted 33-2 on Wednesday, March 5, to send a bill to the governor’s desk that would forbid indemnification clauses in trucking contracts. The clauses are set up to protect shippers or hold them harmless from anything that happens with a shipment.
The House previously endorsed the bill on a 41-23 vote.
If signed into law, HB1065 would outlaw provisions in contracts that provide for shippers to be indemnified for losses caused by their own negligence and would invalidate them.
Affected contracts in Colorado would be defined as “a contract, agreement, or understanding, whether written or oral, express or implied,” between a motor carrier and a shipper covering the transportation of property for hire by the motor carrier, entry on property to load, unload, or transport property.
The protection would not apply to intermodal chassis, or other intermodal equipment.

2/18/2014:

A bill in the Senate Transportation Committee would forbid indemnification clauses in trucking contracts. The clauses are set up to protect shippers or hold them harmless from anything that happens with a shipment. House lawmakers already approved the bill on a 41-23 vote.
HB1065 would outlaw provisions in contracts that provide for shippers to be indemnified for losses caused by their own negligence and would invalidate them.
Affected contracts in Colorado would be defined as “a contract, agreement, or understanding, whether written or oral, express or implied,” between a motor carrier and a shipper covering the transportation of property for hire by the motor carrier, entry on property to load, unload, or transport property.
The protection would not apply to intermodal chassis, or other intermodal equipment.

2/12/2014:

The House voted to advance a bill to the Senate that would forbid indemnification clauses in trucking contracts. The clauses are set up to protect shippers or hold them harmless from anything that happens with a shipment.
HB1065 would outlaw provisions in contracts that provide for shippers to be indemnified for losses caused by their own negligence and would invalidate them.
The bill would define affected contracts in Colorado as “a contract, agreement, or understanding” between a motor carrier and a shipper covering the transportation of property for hire by the motor carrier, entry on property to load, unload, or transport property.
The protection would not apply to intermodal chassis, or other intermodal equipment.
The bill awaits assignment to committee in the Senate.

2/10/2014:

The House Transportation and Energy Committee voted to advance the bill that would forbid indemnification clauses in trucking contracts. The clauses are set up to protect shippers or hold them harmless from anything that happens with a shipment.
HB1065 would outlaw provisions in contracts that provide for shippers to be indemnified for losses caused by their own negligence and would invalidate them.
The bill would define affected contracts in Colorado as “a contract, agreement, or understanding” between a motor carrier and a shipper covering the transportation of property for hire by the motor carrier, entry on property to load, unload, or transport property.
The protection would not apply to intermodal chassis, or other intermodal equipment.
The bill awaits further consideration on the House floor. If approved there, it would move to the Senate.

7/15/2014 (HB1273):

A new law provides a comprehensive legal definition of trafficking.
Previously HB1273, the new law establishes Rape Shield Act protections for victims of trafficking; makes sex trafficking of minors a sex offense against a child; repeals defense options for offenders such as minor consented to involvement; and establishes mandatory restitution in some trafficking cases.
The new law makes it easier to prosecute offenders and also establishes an ongoing council to study the problem.

6/5/2014 (SB197):

Gov. John Hickenlooper vetoed a bill on Wednesday, June 4, that would put in place new rules on public-private partnership deals for highway projects. Specifically, SB197 would increase disclosures, oversight and public input.
The governor said he supports transparency and accountability in government. However, he wrote in a veto letter that the bill “is not just a transparency bill – it also inappropriately constrains the business terms of future P3 agreements.”
Instead, he urged supporters to pursue more input from “the private sector and local government stakeholders before trying to rush legislation through the statehouse.
To help guard against similar actions in the future, one provision in the bill would require public and legislative “check-ins,” including town hall meetings.
It would also limit P3 deals to 35 years. Any effort for a longer lease term would need legislative approval.
Hickenlooper said the constraints on business terms sought in the bill “would create a chilling component on future transactions, making investors unlikely or unwilling to bid on Colorado projects due to the increased risks this process would generate.”
In Colorado, state lawmakers can either choose to revise the bill and send it back to the governor or attempt to override the veto with a two-thirds vote.
The Senate initially approved the bill on a 25-10 vote – which is one more than the 24 votes needed for an override. House lawmakers approved the bill on a 35-29 vote – which is eight votes short of the margin necessary.

5/28/2014:

House lawmakers voted 35-29 to approve a bill that would place new rules on public-private partnership deals for highway projects. Specifically, it would increase disclosures, oversight and public input.
SB197 has been sent to Gov. John Hickenlooper’s desk. Senate lawmakers already approved it on a 20-15 vote.
The bill would require public and legislative “check-ins,” including town hall meetings. It would also limit P3 deals to 35 years. Any effort for a longer lease term would need legislative approval.
The governor can sign the bill, veto it or allow the bill to become law without his signature. The deadline to act is June 6.

5/2/2014:

The Senate voted 20-15 on Wednesday, April 30, to send a bill to the House that covers public-private partnerships.
Sponsored by Sen. Matt Jones, D-Louisville, SB197 would require public and legislative “check-ins,” including town hall meetings.
The bill would also limit P3 deals to 35 years. Any effort for a longer lease term would need legislative approval.
Local governments would also be involved in the process.
The bill is scheduled for consideration in the House Transportation and Energy Committee on Friday afternoon. However, time is running out to get the bill through the statehouse. The General Assembly is scheduled to adjourn for the year on Wednesday, May 7.

3/3/2014 (HB1031):

A new law is intended to benefit truckers after nonconsensual tows.
Currently, the state’s Public Utilities Commission regulates the rates that can be charged for a nonconsensual tow of vehicles weighing less than 10,000 pounds. Nonconsensual towing rates for vehicles weighing more than 10,000 pounds are determined by a negotiated agreement between the tower and law enforcement.
Gov. John Hickenlooper signed into law a bill to repeal the 10,000-pound weight restriction to apply the PUC’s towing rate regulation to all vehicles. Previously HB1031, the new law takes effect Aug. 6.
The new law also creates a nine-person committee to advise the PUC on rates and investigations of overcharges. One member would represent truck drivers.

2/12/2014:

The Senate Transportation Committee voted to advance a bill to the full Senate that covers nonconsensual tows. House lawmakers already approved it.
Currently, the Public Utilities Commission regulates the rates that can be charged for a nonconsensual tow of vehicles weighing less than 10,000 pounds. Nonconsensual towing rates for vehicles weighing more than 10,000 pounds are determined by a negotiated agreement between the tower and law enforcement.
HB1031 would repeal the 10,000-pound weight restriction to apply the PUC’s towing rate regulation to all vehicles.
A nine-person committee would also be created to advise the PUC on rates and investigations of overcharges. One member would represent truck drivers.

2/10/2014:

The House voted to approve a bill that covers nonconsensual tows. It now moves to the Senate.
Currently, the Public Utilities Commission regulates the rates that can be charged for a nonconsensual tow of vehicles weighing less than 10,000 pounds. Nonconsensual towing rates for vehicles weighing more than 10,000 pounds are determined by a negotiated agreement between the tower and law enforcement.
HB1031 would repeal the 10,000-pound weight restriction to apply the PUC’s towing rate regulation to all vehicles.
The bill can be considered by the Senate Transportation Committee.

4/23/2014 (HB1152):

A new law requires data from automated license plate readers to be destroyed after three years.
Previously, state law permitted surveillance data to be kept indefinitely.
HB1152 requires the state government to destroy any data from traffic and government cameras after three years. The rule makes an exception for data related to pending criminal investigations.

5/13/2014 (SB181):

The House Appropriations Committee voted to kill a bill that sought to bar local governments from using red-light and speed cameras. The Senate previously approved the bill.
SB181 would have prohibited cities and towns from using automated enforcement to distribute tickets.

4/10/2014:

A bill in the Senate State, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee would bar local governments from using red-light and speed cameras.
Sponsored by Sen. Scott Renfroe, R-Greeley, SB181 would prohibit cities and towns from using automated enforcement to distribute tickets.

3/19/2014 (SB7):

Gov. John Hickenlooper signed into law a bill that provides counties impacted by last fall’s floods more wiggle room in their budgeting to repair roads and bridges.
Previously SB7, the new law allows county commissioners to use general funds for road and bridge work following declared disaster emergencies. It took effect immediately.

5/24/2012 (HB1019):

Gov. John Hickenlooper signed into law a bill to shift responsibility for Ports of Entry staff and facilities from the Colorado Department of Revenue to state troopers. As a result, the department’s motor carrier services division will be eliminated.
Starting July 1, the motor carrier services division’s responsibility for commercial driver’s licensing and the International Registration Plan will be shifted to the DOR.
Previously HB1019, the rule change is a follow-up to a 2010 law that handed over all truck safety activities to the State Patrol. At the time, advocates said the change would help ensure greater uniformity and consistency in truck inspections, interpretations of laws and enforcement procedures.

4/25/2012:

House and Senate lawmakers reached agreement on a bill to shift responsibility for Ports of Entry staff and facilities from the Colorado Department of Revenue to state troopers. As a result, the department’s motor carrier services division would be eliminated.
HB1019 now moves to Gov. John Hickenlooper’s desk. If signed into law, the motor carrier services division’s responsibility for commercial driver’s licensing and the International Registration Plan would be shifted to the Revenue Department.
The switch would take effect July 1.
For bill status, call 303-866-3055.

3/28/2012:

The Senate Transportation Committee voted unanimously to advance a bill that would shift responsibility for Ports of Entry staff and facilities from the Colorado Department of Revenue to the State Patrol. As a result, the DOR’s motor carrier services division would be eliminated.
The motor carrier services division’s responsibility for commercial driver’s licensing and the International Registration Plan would be shifted to the Revenue Department.
HB1019 would take another step toward increasing efficiencies. Roxy Huber of the Colorado State Patrol told lawmakers during recent discussion on the bill that savings will be realized through more efficient communications, timely training, and better equipment.
The bill is awaiting clearance for a Senate floor vote. If approved there, the bill would move to the governor’s desk. House lawmakers already approved it.
If signed into law the switch would take effect July 1, 2012.
For bill status, call 303-866-3055.

2/4/2012:

The House Transportation Committee voted to advance a bill to transfer the Motor Carrier Services Division, and with it responsibility for Ports of Entry, from the Department of Revenue to the Department of Public Safety.
The Department of Revenue would retain CDL licensing and the International Registration Plan.
HB1019 has moved to the House Appropriations Committee. For bill status, call 303-866-3055.

3/5/2012 (SB50):

The Senate Transportation Committee voted to kill a bill to prohibit cities and towns from using red-light and speed cameras.
SB50 would not have affected cameras employed on toll roads and HOV lanes.

1/19/2012:

A bill in the Senate Transportation Committee would prohibit cities and towns from using red-light and speed cameras.
Sponsored by Sen. Scott Renfroe, R-Greeley, SB50 would not affect cameras employed on toll roads and HOV lanes.
For bill status, call 303-866-3055.

6/20/2012 (HB1038):

Gov. John Hickenlooper signed into law a bill to create a permanent registration for Class A trailers and semitrailers. It takes effect Aug. 1.
Previously HB1038, the new law puts in place an alternate registration for interstate, commercial trucks and semitrailers if the owner is based in a jurisdiction other than Colorado or, if the owner is based in the state, the semitrailer is at least 10 years old.
The new registration is permanent; however, it would expire if the trailer or semitrailer transfers ownership.

5/24/2012:

A bill on Gov. John Hickenlooper’s desk would create a permanent registration for Class A trailers and semitrailers.
HB1038 would put in place an alternate registration for interstate, commercial trucks and semitrailers if the owner is based in a jurisdiction other than Colorado or, if the owner is based in the state, the semitrailer is at least 10 years old.
The new registration would be permanent; however, it would expire if the trailer or semitrailer transfers ownership.
For bill status, call 303-866-3055.

2/21/2012:

The House Transportation Committee voted to advance a bill to create a permanent registration for Class A trailers and semitrailers.
HB1038 would put in place an alternate registration for interstate, commercial trucks and semitrailers if the owner is based in a jurisdiction other than Colorado or, if the owner is based in the state, the semitrailer is at least 10 years old.
The bill now moves to the House Appropriations Committee. For bill status, call 303-866-3055.

2/4/2012:

A bill in the House Transportation Committee would create a permanent registration for Class A trailers and semitrailers.
HB1038 would put in place an alternate registration for interstate, commercial trucks and semitrailers if the owner is based in a jurisdiction other than Colorado or, if the owner is based in the state, the semitrailer is at least 10 years old.
For bill status, call 303-866-3055.

3/24/2011 (HB1059):

The Senate Local Government Committee voted to kill a bill that sought to offer some protection from fees applied by police and fire personnel responding to vehicle accidents. The House previously approved it.
Sponsored by Rep. Spencer Swalm, R-Centennial, HB1059 would have prohibited cities along the Front Range from imposing “crash taxes” on nonresidents to recoup costs.
The affected area stretches from Pueblo to Fort Collins. Communities could still charge their own residents for costs incurred by emergency personnel.
Rural communities in the state were not affected by the bill.

3/14/2011:

The House has approved an amended bill that would offer some protection from fees applied by police and fire personnel responding to vehicle accidents. It now moves to the Senate.
Sponsored by Rep. Spencer Swalm, R-Centennial, HB1059 would prohibit cities along the Front Range from imposing “crash taxes” on nonresidents to recoup costs.
The affected area stretches from Pueblo to Fort Collins. Communities could still charge their own residents for costs incurred by emergency personnel.
Rural communities in the state are not affected by the bill.
The bill is in the Senate Local Government Committee.
For bill status, call 303-866-3055. In Colorado, call 800-811-7647.

2/22/2011:

A bill in the House Local Government Committee would put a stop to local governments charging accident response fees.
Sponsored by Rep. Spencer Swalm, R-Centennial, HB1059 would prohibit municipalities from charging fees.
For bill status, call 303-866-3055. In Colorado, call 800-811-7647.

6/13/2011 (HB1275):

A new law sets a statewide idling standard for commercial vehicles weighing in excess of 14,000 pounds.
The city and county of Denver now limit idling to 10 minutes each hour.
As of July 1, 2011, the statewide standard will limit affected vehicles to idling for no more than five minutes per hour. Violators would face fines of up to $150. Repeat offenses could result in up to $500 fines.
Communities are authorized to adopt the idling standard. However, local authorities are not required to enforce the state standard.
The list of circumstances that exempt truckers in Colorado from the restriction is lengthy. Valid reasons to idle include situations when vehicles are stuck in traffic or when idling is necessary to heat or cool a sleeper berth during a rest or sleep period at a rest area, truck terminal, truck stop, or “state-designated location designed to be a driver’s rest area.”
Truckers getting rest are also be exempt from the restriction while parked at a location where the vehicle is legally permitted to park, as long as it is located at least 1,000 feet from housing, a school, a daycare or a hospital.
An exception for cold temperatures kicks in when the thermostat dips below 10 degrees. Under such circumstances, idling will be allowed for up to 20 minutes per hour.
Revenue from fines will be distributed between the state’s highway fund (65 percent), counties (26 percent) and cities (9 percent).

6/1/2011:

A bill on its way to Gov. John Hickenlooper’s desk would set a statewide idling standard for commercial vehicles weighing in excess of 14,000 pounds.
The city and county of Denver now limit idling to 10 minutes each hour.
HB1275 would limit affected vehicles to idling for no more than five minutes per hour. Violators would face fines of up to $150. Repeat offenses could result in up to $500 fines.
Communities could adopt the idling standard. However, local authorities would not be required to enforce the state standard.
The list of circumstances that would exempt truckers in Colorado from the restriction is lengthy. Valid reasons to idle would include situations when vehicles are stuck in traffic; when idling is necessary to heat or cool a sleeper berth during a rest or sleep period at a rest area, truck terminal, truck stop, or “state-designated location designed to be a driver’s rest area.”
Truckers getting rest would also be exempt from the restriction while parked at a location where the vehicle is legally permitted to park, as long as it is located at least 1,000 feet from housing, a school, a daycare or a hospital.
An exception for cold temperatures would kick in when the thermostat dips below 10 degrees. Under such circumstances, idling would be allowed for up to 20 minutes per hour.
Fine revenue would be distributed between the state’s highway fund (65 percent), counties (26 percent) and cities (9 percent).
For bill status, call 303-866-3055. In Colorado, call 800-811-7647.

4/28/2011:

The Senate Transportation Committee voted to advance a bill to the full Senate that would set a statewide idling standard for commercial vehicles weighing in excess of 14,000 pounds.
The city and county of Denver now limit idling to 10 minutes each hour.
HB1275 would limit affected vehicles to idling for no more than five minutes per hour.
Local authorities would also be permitted to adopt an idling standard if it is not more stringent.
Violators would face fines of up to $150. Repeat offenses could result in up to $500 fines.
The list of circumstances that would exempt truckers in Colorado from the restriction is lengthy. Valid reasons to idle would include situations when vehicles are stuck in traffic, when idling is necessary to heat or cool a sleeper berth during a rest or sleep period, and at a rest area, truck terminal, truck stop, or “state-designated location designed to be a driver’s rest area.”
Truckers would also be exempt from the restriction while parked at a location where the vehicle is legally permitted to park, as long as it is located at least 1,000 feet from housing, a school, a daycare or a hospital.
Exceptions for cold temperatures would kick in when the thermostat dips below 10 degrees or if the temperature has been below 20 degrees for the past 24 hours.
Fine revenue would be distributed between the state’s highway fund (65 percent), counties (26 percent) and cities (9 percent).
If approved there, the bill would head back to the House for approval of changes before moving to the governor’s desk.
For bill status, call 303-866-3055. In Colorado, call 800-811-7647.

4/1/2011 (HB1210):

Gov. John Hickenlooper signed a bill into law Wednesday, March 30, that requires the Colorado Department of Transportation to make a list of recommendations for state lawmakers to address the growing gridlock along the Interstate 70 corridor. Possible funding options also are sought.
In addition, public hearings to discuss options under consideration are required.
Officials are looking for viable ways to address congestion concerns on the only east-west interstate through Colorado and impacts commerce, tourism and the ski industry.
Among the options expected to be discussed are tolls, “zipper lanes,” which are moveable concrete lane barriers, and opening of hard shoulders to traffic at peak congestion times.
CDOT will be required to report its recommendations to the House and Senate transportation committees early next year.

6/13/2011 (HB1279):

Gov. John Hickenlooper signed into law a bill that addresses permits for excess size and weight vehicles.
Currently, an overweight vehicle permit in Colorado may be issued for a vehicle with a trailer or semitrailer with a tandem or triple axle grouping as long as the combined vehicle weight does not exceed 97,000 pounds.
HB1279 changes the rule to specify that the trailer may have two or three axles, rather than a tandem or triple axle grouping.

5/16/2011:

The Senate voted to advance a bill to the governor that addresses permits for excess size and weight vehicles. The House already approved it.
Currently, an overweight vehicle permit in Colorado may be issued for a vehicle with a trailer or semitrailer with a tandem or triple axle grouping as long as the combined vehicle weight does not exceed 97,000 pounds.
HB1279 would change the rule to specify that the trailer may have two or three axles, rather than a tandem or triple axle grouping.
For bill status, call 303-866-3055. In Colorado, call 800-811-7647.

4/28/2011:

The Senate Transportation Committee voted to advance a bill that addresses permits for excess size and weight vehicles.
Currently, an overweight vehicle permit in Colorado may be issued for a vehicle with a trailer or semitrailer with a tandem or triple axle grouping as long as the combined vehicle weight does not exceed 97,000 pounds.
HB1279 would change the rule to specify that the trailer may have two or three axles, rather than a tandem or triple axle grouping.
If approved by the full Senate, the bill would move to the governor’s desk. House lawmakers already approved it.
For bill status, call 303-866-3055. In Colorado, call 800-811-7647.

2/11/2016 (HB5044):

A bill in the Joint Committee on Appropriations is part of Gov. Dannel Malloy’s state budget proposal. Specifically, it includes a provision that calls for a shutdown of multiple rest areas on Interstate 84.
The closures of the Southington and eastbound Willington rest areas along I-84 and the welcome center in Westbrook along the Connecticut Turnpike are included in Gov. Dannel Malloy’s $19.8 billion state budget proposal.
Also included in HB5044 is a provision to cut back operations at 28 other state-operated rest areas. Specifically, operations would be trimmed from three shifts to two shifts.
The committee is scheduled to hold additional hearings on the governor’s state budget proposal.

3/21/2016 (HB5489):

A bill in the Joint Committee on Planning and Economic Development would provide additional resources for local law enforcement issuing traffic citations.
State law now adds a $15 surcharge to citations such as speeding to support town or city agencies.
HB5489 would increase the fee amount collected by local departments to $25, or an amount equal to 25 percent of the fine, whichever is greater.
The change sought in the bill would take effect on July 1, 2016.

3/21/2016 (HB5239):

A bill in the Joint Committee on Planning and Economic Development would provide additional resources for local law enforcement issuing traffic citations.
State law now adds a $15 surcharge to citations such as speeding to support town or city agencies.
HB5239 would increase the fee amount collected by local departments to $25, or an amount equal to 25 percent of the fine, whichever is greater.

3/21/2016 (HB5189):

A bill in the Joint Committee on Environment covers littering fines.
HB5189 would increase fine amounts to as much as $1,000 – up from $199.

3/21/2016 (HB5318):

A bill in the Joint Committee on Environment would put idling rules into state statute.
Connecticut state regulations already prohibit vehicle idling for more than three minutes.
Exceptions are made for situations that include when it is necessary to defrost, heat or cool equipment, and when the temperature is below 20 degrees.
HB5318 would also add a specific exception for large trucks. Specifically, an exception to the idling rule would be made for instances when a truck is in a queue waiting for weighing, loading or unloading of freight.
Another change would specify that violators face fines between $35 and $90.

7/16/2015 (HB6817):

A bill died that sought to give law enforcement authority to request that a vehicle blocking a busy roadway be removed by a wrecker service.
HB6817 would have exempted any police or traffic authority personnel from liability for damage to a vehicle or its load as long as “reasonable care” was used in the removal process. Wrecker services would also have been indemnified from any liability.

4/21/2015 (HB6817):

The Joint Committee on Transportation recently voted to advance a bill that would give law enforcement authority to request that a vehicle blocking a busy roadway be removed by a wrecker service.
HB6817 would exempt any police or traffic authority personnel from liability for damage to a vehicle or its load as long as “reasonable care” was used in the removal process. Wrecker services would also be indemnified from any liability.
The bill awaits further consideration in the House.

4/16/2015 (SB505):

A bill is likely dead that covers road cleanup by tow truck operators at wreck scenes.
SB505 would require tow operators to clean up debris left behind after a vehicle accident.

3/9/2015 (HB6817):