Senate committee backs higher fines for work-zone violations after contractors cite fatalities

The Senate Infrastructure Committee advanced House Bill 4538, which would increase fines and penalties for traffic offenses at or near construction and maintenance work sites.

Counsel summarized the bill’s changes to traffic-code penalties: first-conviction fines could increase up to $250 (from $100); second-conviction fines up to $500 (from $200); and subsequent convictions up to $1,000 (from $500). The bill would also raise fines for exceeding posted speed restrictions in construction zones and references the electronically distracted driving statute, with counsel noting a possible inadvertent doubling of penalties for vehicular homicide in a construction zone through cross-reference.

Jason Pizzatella, CEO of the Contractors Association, testified the industry supported the bill and cited three work-zone fatalities in the last two years and a Parkways Authority employee death on the Turnpike last year. "The vast majority of the fines in this bill have not changed since 1994," Pizzatella told the committee, arguing enhanced penalties would help protect workers. Senators shared anecdotal and personal testimony about work-zone danger and urged stronger protections and enforcement measures, including more visible speed-warning devices and attention to the timing of signage.

Vice chair moved the engrossed committee substitute for House Bill 4538 be reported to the full Senate with a recommendation that it do pass; the chair declared the ayes have it and the motion was adopted.