State Rep. Moseley’s efforts to make Indiana roads safer closer to final approval

INDIANAPOLIS — Legislation championed by State Rep. Chuck Moseley (D-Portage) that is designed to lower the number of accidents that take place in work zones is moving closer to final approval in the Indiana General Assembly.

Senate Bill 248, which was approved today by an overwhelming majority in the Indiana House, would increase the penalties for repeat offenders who violate speed limits in work zones.

In its current form, Senate Bill 248 mirrors House Bill 1249, a measure Moseley authored earlier this session. If the changes made in the House are approved by the Senate, the bill is expected to move to the governor’s desk for final approval.

The bill would impose an additional penalty—suspending a person’s driving privileges for 60 days—should an individual be found guilty of committing two work zone speed limit violations within a year. The bill does make an exception by allowing a vehicle to be operated to and from the offender’s place of employment.

“This is our opportunity to improve the safety of Indiana roads,” said Moseley. “Individuals who are caught not once but twice disregarding the posted speed limit in work zones are demonstrating a clear disregard for other people’s safety.”

The bill is in response to the number of individuals who have lost their lives due to accidents in Indiana worksites. In 2014 alone, 14 individuals were killed and a number of individuals were injured in these locations.

“This bill will help us prevent these accidents from occurring as well as introduce consequences for those who violate worksite speeds,” said Moseley. “I am happy to see this legislation move forward and hope to see it signed into law.”