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Merced Council introduces ordinance to restrict pedestrian crossings outside crosswalks, preserves narrow enforcement for imminent danger
Summary
The Merced City Council introduced Ordinance 25‑87 to align local code with state law decriminalizing jaywalking, focusing the city's authority on public education and a narrow enforcement exception when a pedestrian's actions pose imminent danger; the introduction passed unanimously.
The Merced City Council on Jan. 5 introduced Ordinance 25‑87, which amends Chapter 10.24 of the Merced Municipal Code to prohibit pedestrian crossings outside of marked crosswalks and to repeal a separate prohibition on standing in roadways.
City Attorney Cornwall told the council the state legislature's 2022 action decriminalized jaywalking, leaving only a narrow enforcement window. "The state legislature basically decriminalized jaywalking," Cornwall said, adding the local ordinance "allows for law enforcement to cite if there is imminent danger of a collision" and provides a vehicle for public education.
Police staff emphasized the change is limited. The chief said officers can intervene "if the pedestrian's actions cause an imminent safety hazard" and described scenarios — unlit conditions, scooters, or dashing into traffic — in which a citation could be appropriate. He framed the ordinance as a way to "get out to the community to warn on potential dangers of that activity."
Council discussion focused on public safety and the ordinance's practical effect. Council member Smith said the measure is "a narrow step in the right direction" and suggested the city can "road test" the policy and return with changes if needed. Other council members said the proposal aligns municipal messaging with state law and gives staff a mechanism for education and limited enforcement.
The motion to introduce Ordinance 25‑87 was made by Council member Harris, seconded by Council member DuPont, and passed unanimously. The introduction is the first step; the council will schedule subsequent readings and opportunities for further public comment and technical revisions.
Why it matters: The ordinance clarifies Merced's local code in light of state preemption, prioritizes public messaging about pedestrian safety, and sets a limited enforcement standard tied to imminent danger — a balance council members described as preserving safety without overcriminalizing pedestrian behavior.
