OLR Bill Analysis

sSB 72

AN ACT CONCERNING THE USE OF EMERGENCY PERSONNEL BICYCLES WITH AUDIBLE WARNING DEVICES.

SUMMARY:

The bill exempts firefighters and emergency services personnel from state laws and local regulations governing bicycle operations on highways, under certain conditions and subject to the same standards that apply to police officers, who are currently exempt. They must be (1) responding to emergency calls, (2) engaging in rescue operations, or (3) pursuing actual or suspected criminals. They must have completed a basic bicycle patrol course equivalent to the one police officers must now complete (i. e. , a course certified by the Police Officer Standards and Training Council or an equivalent course) and must wear a distinctive uniform and use an audible signal such as a siren, whistle, or bell. They have a duty to drive with due regard for the safety of people and property.

EFFECTIVE DATE: October 1, 2006

COMMITTEE ACTION

Public Safety and Security Committee

Joint Favorable Substitute