OLR Bill Analysis

sSB 299

AN ACT CONCERNING BICYCLE ACCESS AND SAFETY.

SUMMARY:

This bill makes improving bicycle and pedestrian access throughout the state transportation system eligible for funding previously authorized by law for implementing priority transportation strategy projects and initiatives (i. e. , “Tier 1” strategy projects).

By law, any vehicle overtaking another vehicle proceeding in the same direction must pass to its left at a safe distance and not move right until safely clear of the overtaken vehicle. The bill specifies that in the case of a vehicle overtaking and passing a bicyclist, a safe distance is at least three feet.

Finally, the bill requires the transportation commissioner, within available appropriations and in consultation with groups advocating on behalf of bicyclists, to develop and implement a statewide “Share the Road” public awareness campaign to educate the public about the rights and responsibilities of motorists and bicyclists using the highways together.

EFFECTIVE DATE: October 1, 2008

BACKGROUND

Legislative History

The Senate referred the bill to the Appropriations Committee on April 3. The committee reported a substitute bill on April 11. The committee (1) deleted a provision requiring the transportation commissioner to include areas for bicyclists and pedestrians when creating a layout of, or relocating, a state highway, instead authorizing him to do it whenever possible and (2) specified that the “Share the Road” campaign be developed and implemented within available appropriations.

COMMITTEE ACTION

Transportation Committee

Joint Favorable

Appropriations Committee

Joint Favorable Substitute