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Bill

A 7434

Establishes the crimes of vehicular assault and vehicular manslaughter in an active work zone and intrusion into an active work zone

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Keith Brown and 3 co-sponsors

Bill A 7434 establishes criminal offenses for vehicular assault and manslaughter in active work zones, enhancing protections for workers and promoting safer driving.

REFERRED TO CODES
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 7434

Summary of Bill A 7434

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: A 7434
  • Title: Establishes the crimes of vehicular assault and vehicular manslaughter in an active work zone and intrusion into an active work zone
  • Status: Referred to Codes
  • Introduced Date: March 27, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 7434 aims to enhance the safety of construction and maintenance workers by establishing specific criminal offenses related to vehicular incidents occurring in active work zones. The legislation seeks to deter reckless driving in these areas, thereby protecting both workers and the general public.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces two primary offenses:
1. Vehicular Assault in an Active Work Zone:
- This provision would classify causing serious physical injury to a person in an active work zone as a criminal offense.
- Penalties may include fines and imprisonment, reflecting the severity of the offense.

  1. Vehicular Manslaughter in an Active Work Zone:

    • This provision would categorize causing the death of a person in an active work zone as vehicular manslaughter.
    • Similar to vehicular assault, this offense would carry significant penalties, including potential imprisonment.
  2. Intrusion into an Active Work Zone:

    • The bill also addresses unauthorized entry into active work zones, which can pose risks to both workers and drivers.
    • Specific penalties for this intrusion would be outlined, emphasizing the importance of respecting work zone boundaries.

Impact

  • Who Would Be Affected:

    • Construction and Maintenance Workers: Enhanced protections for individuals working in active work zones.
    • Drivers: Increased accountability for drivers who fail to adhere to safety regulations in these areas.
    • Law Enforcement: New guidelines and definitions for law enforcement to apply when responding to incidents in work zones.
  • Public Safety: The bill aims to reduce the number of accidents and fatalities in active work zones, contributing to overall public safety.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on March 27, 2025, and has been referred to the Codes Committee for further consideration.
  • It is important to note that this bill has related prior-session bills (A 2591, A 4560, A 1642, A 1581, A 1976, A 2021) and a companion bill in the Senate (S 829), indicating ongoing legislative interest in addressing issues related to work zone safety.

Conclusion

Bill A 7434 represents a significant step towards improving safety in active work zones by establishing clear legal consequences for dangerous driving behaviors. If enacted, it would provide stronger protections for workers and promote safer driving practices in areas where construction and maintenance activities are taking place.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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