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HB 1596

TO AMEND THE LAW CONCERNING MOVING TRAFFIC VIOLATIONS IN A HIGHWAY WORK ZONE; TO CREATE MOBILE WORK ZONES; AND ASSESS A FINE FOR A MOVING TRAFFIC VIOLATION IN A MOBILE WORK ZONE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Kim Hammer and 1 co-sponsor

Act 327 enhances highway work zone safety by imposing extra fines for traffic violations, protecting construction workers and promoting compliance among drivers.

Notification that HB1596 is now Act 327
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1596

Summary of House Bill 1596 (Act 327)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1596, now known as Act 327, aims to enhance safety in highway work zones by amending existing laws regarding moving traffic violations. The bill introduces the concept of "mobile work zones" and establishes additional fines for traffic violations occurring within these zones. The intent is to protect construction personnel and improve compliance with traffic regulations in areas where road work is being conducted.

Key Provisions

  • Definitions: The bill defines key terms, including:

    • Construction Personnel: Employees of the Arkansas Department of Transportation, counties, municipalities, and contractors.
    • Highway Work Zone: Areas where road work is actively being performed.
    • Mobile Work Zone: Temporary work areas marked by specific signs or devices, indicating that work is in progress.

  • Fines for Violations:

    • An additional fine may be assessed for moving traffic violations committed in both highway and mobile work zones if construction personnel are present.
    • The additional fine will be equivalent to the standard fine for the violation committed.
    • No additional court costs will be assessed for these violations.

  • Collection of Fines:

    • Fines collected will be directed to the appropriate county or city treasurer and can be used for general purposes within those jurisdictions.

  • Signage Requirements:

    • Signs indicating that fines are doubled in work zones must be posted at least 1,500 feet but no more than one mile before the work zone.
    • For mobile work zones, fines will not be assessed unless warning signs are present on the highway equipment.

  • Scope of Moving Traffic Violations: The bill specifies that moving traffic violations include a range of offenses, such as:

    • Careless driving
    • Driving under the influence
    • Speeding
    • Reckless driving
    • Failure to obey traffic control devices

Impact

  • Affected Parties: The legislation primarily impacts drivers who commit moving traffic violations in highway and mobile work zones, as well as construction personnel who will benefit from enhanced safety measures.
  • Law Enforcement: The bill provides law enforcement with clearer guidelines for assessing fines and enforcing traffic regulations in work zones.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: February 26, 2025
  • Legislative Journey:
    • Passed through both the House and Senate with multiple readings and committee recommendations.
    • Enrolled and transmitted to the Governor's Office by March 12, 2025.
    • Officially became Act 327 on March 18, 2025.

This summary provides an overview of House Bill 1596, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and the impact it is expected to have on traffic safety in Arkansas.

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

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