Measure Builds Safety Net for Highway Construction Workers

The House Saturday unanimously passed legislation to double the fines for moving traffic violations in construction zones. Senate Bill 304, sponsored by Senator Dave Donley (R-Anchorage), was introduced to build a safety net for highway construction workers.
“When our highway construction crews work to improve Alaska’s roadways, they run a high risk of being injured by reckless drivers,” said Senator Donley. “Because our workers put their lives on the line, it is essential the Legislature do all it can to protect them from harm.”
“Twenty six other states have increased sanctions for careless motorists who recklessly endanger the safety of roadway workers,” said Senator Donley. “These states, after putting larger deterrents in place through increased penalties, have achieved a significant reduction in the number of work zone accidents. I hope people will be more careful when they take to the roads and that Alaska will experience a similar reduction in accidents. This measure will save contractors money due to fewer accidents and injuries at the worksite.”