H.R. 3880: Clear the Reckless Obstructions And Dangers on Streets Act

This bill, known as the Clear the Reckless Obstructions And Dangers on Streets Act or Clear the ROADS Act, aims to enhance safety on highways by addressing unlawful roadway obstructions. Here’s a summary of its key components:

Purpose

The bill mandates that states take reasonable measures to prevent individuals from obstructing vehicle transportation on federal-aid highways in ways that could endanger public safety. If states fail to comply, they risk losing federal funding.

Key Provisions

• Withholding of Funds: The bill allows the Secretary of Transportation to withhold up to 10% of federal transportation funds from states that do not demonstrate proper efforts to prohibit reckless roadway obstructions. This withholding will begin if the Secretary determines that a state has not met certain requirements by a set deadline.
• Definition of Requirement: A state will meet the requirement if it prevents individuals, not affiliated with government work, from intentionally obstructing lawful vehicle operation on highways in a way that puts public health or safety at risk.
• Regulations: The Secretary of Transportation is tasked with developing regulations to ensure that these measures can be effectively implemented, which must be established within 180 days of the bill's enactment.

Implementation Timeline

The enforcement of these requirements will start after the Secretary issues the necessary regulations or after the next legislative session for a state, whichever comes later.

Impact on States

States will need to take proactive steps to enforce laws against recklessly obstructing highways, which may involve legislation, local law enforcement initiatives, or other governmental oversight measures. If they do not comply, they face a financial penalty that may significantly affect their transportation budgets.

Relevant Companies

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