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SB 498

ETHICS-TECH

104th Regular Session Introduced by Don Harmon

SB 498 mandates traffic control devices for crosswalks in school zones and high-speed roads, enhancing safety for pedestrians, especially school children, starting October 2026.

Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Bill Summary · SB 498

Summary of SB 498: School Zone and Pedestrian Safety

Bill Number: SB 498
Introduced: November 13, 2025
Status: Filed
Effective Date: July 1, 2026

Purpose and Intent

SB 498 aims to enhance safety for pedestrians, particularly in school zones and on certain high-speed roadways. The bill mandates the inclusion of specific traffic control devices in the design and construction plans for crosswalks, thereby improving visibility and safety for pedestrians crossing streets.

Key Provisions

The bill amends section 336.045 of the Florida Statutes and introduces the following key provisions:

  • Traffic Control Devices Requirement:
    Beginning October 1, 2026, all design and construction plans for crosswalk installations in school zones or on public streets, roads, or highways with a posted speed limit exceeding 35 miles per hour must include appropriate traffic control devices. These devices must conform to standards outlined in the most recent Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD).

  • Specific Device Standards:
    The bill specifies that the following traffic control devices must be included:

    • Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons (Chapter 4J of the MUTCD)
    • Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (Chapter 4L of the MUTCD)
    • Flashing Beacons (Chapter 4S of the MUTCD)
    • In-Roadway Warning Lights (Chapter 4U of the MUTCD)
      In-Roadway Warning Lights are to be used in conjunction with Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons or Flashing Beacons to enhance crosswalk visibility.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Local Governments and Agencies:
    This bill will impact local governments and transportation agencies responsible for the design and construction of roadways and crosswalks in school zones and high-speed areas.

  • Pedestrians and School Children:
    The primary beneficiaries of this legislation will be pedestrians, especially school children, who will have improved safety measures in place when crossing streets in designated areas.

Procedural Aspects

  • Filing Date: The bill was filed on November 13, 2025.
  • Implementation Timeline: The requirement for including specific traffic control devices will take effect on October 1, 2026, allowing time for local agencies to adapt their plans accordingly.

Conclusion

SB 498 represents a proactive approach to pedestrian safety, particularly in areas frequented by children. By mandating the installation of specific traffic control devices at crosswalks, the bill seeks to reduce accidents and enhance the overall safety of school zones and high-speed roadways in Florida.

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

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