Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Neilson bill to promote work zone driving safety headed to Senate <

Neilson bill to promote work zone driving safety headed to Senate

Today, Pennsylvania lawmakers voted to protect road workers by passing legislation authored by House Transportation Committee Chair Rep. Ed Neilson.

The bipartisan bill (H.B. 257) would provide more tools to help new drivers learn about how to drive safely in a work zone. It accomplishes this by requiring that the written driving test include at least one question about work zone driving safety, while also requiring minors to view PennDOT’s educational materials about work zone driving safety before they apply for a junior driver’s license.

“Road workers deserve protective measures to ease their worry about potential safety risks. They work hard, sometimes in the extreme heat and cold, to ensure that roads and bridges across the state are safe and efficient,” Neilson said. “Educating new drivers on the best practices while driving through work zones instills safe driving habits from the moment they apply for their driver’s permit.”

According to PennDOT, 91 workers have lost their lives in the line of duty since 1970.

The bill now moves to the state Senate for consideration.