New Senate Bill Champions Work Zone Safety and Protects Roadside Workers

New Senate Bill Champions Work Zone Safety and Protects Roadside Workers

Roadside worker safety is getting a much-needed spotlight on Capitol Hill. This new bipartisan legislation, known as the "Safe Roads for Those Who Serve Act," has been introduced to address the alarming rate of injuries and fatalities among those working along our roadways. With over 500 roadside workers having tragically lost their lives since 2020, action is critical.

Key Takeaways from the Senate Bill

• Data Tracking & Accountability: States would be required to improve their data tracking of highway worker incidents. If incidents increase over a two-year period, they must create a dedicated highway worker safety plan.
• Public Awareness: The bill proposes a national public awareness campaign focused specifically on the safety of roadside workers, ensuring safe roads for everyone.
• Infrastructure Integration: Major infrastructure grant applications will be required to include robust plans emphasizing construction safety to protect both workers and drivers during and after projects.
• Industry Backing: The bill already has strong support from key groups across the civil engineering and transportation sectors, including the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), and the Towing and Recovery Association of America.

Improving overall work zone safety for our first responders, tow operators, and construction crews requires a multi-faceted approach. This legislation is a major step in the right direction.