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House approves bill to codify 20 mph school-zone limit where no physical barrier exists
Summary
House Bill 57, authorizing 20 mph limits at school grounds lacking physical barriers and clarifying when highway speeds may remain, passed the House 60–2 after floor debate about local authority and pedestrian safety.
Representative James, sponsor of House Bill 57, told colleagues the bill targets school areas with special hazards and clarifies that when a school has no physical barrier (for instance a 6-foot fence), drivers must travel at a reasonable and prudent speed — effectively a 20 mph limit in those school zones during opening, closing and recess periods. "The 20 mile an hour speed limit when passing a school building on its grounds during the school recess or while children are going to or leaving school ..." the sponsor explained.
Several representatives questioned scenarios where a school abuts a high-speed highway or where fencing exists on some sides but not others. An opposing floor speaker expressed concern the bill could allow higher speeds on roads adjacent to schools and might remove local authority to require stops or more protective measures. The sponsor and other supporters responded that the bill targets situations where access is limited and noted the Transportation Commission would have authority to promulgate implementing rules for physical-barrier standards.
After extended exchange, summation was waived and the House voted to pass HB 57 with 60 affirmative votes and 2 negative votes. The measure will now be forwarded to the state Senate.
