Mark Friend and I with an example of
signage that could be on sanitation trucks all across the state
if the "Slow Down to Get Around" bill passes.
Click on the image below to
watch Rep. Jagler and Mark Friend discuss the "Slow Down to Get
Around Bill" on WISN 12 News
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Slow Down to Get Around
While campaigning in Ixonia, I met a future constituent,
Mark Friend. Mark, who has worked in the sanitation
industry for years, told me of the dangers he and his coworkers
face every day while on the job. He explained how reckless
drivers can create a dangerous work environment for sanitation
workers on or near the street. I promised him I would look
into ways to improve safety conditions if I was to become his
representative.
Just months later, Mark was severely injured in an accident in
Stoughton, losing a leg. After very nearly losing his life
and undergoing about two dozen surgeries, Mark called me to
remind me of the promise I made. I immediately started
working on a bill that would decrease the chances of accidents
like this taking place.
Under current law, fines are doubled for speeding or reckless
driving violations in highway maintenance areas, construction
areas, and areas where utility work is taking place in order to
encourage safer driving near workers. Sanitation workers
do not have the same protections.
Today, I circulated LRB-1526/1, the "Slow Down to Get Around"
bill, for co-sponsorship in the state legislature. This bill
will double the penalties for reckless driving in areas where
sanitation workers are at risk from traffic.
I hope that this bill will encourage drivers to be more
safety-conscious when driving near sanitation workers. I believe
that it will significantly decrease the number of accidents
involving them. I encourage you to contact my office in order to
provide feedback on the proposed legislation.
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AB 55: The Rock River Trail
Scenic and Historic Route
Another important bill that I have been working
on is AB 55, also known as the Rock River Trail Scenic and
Historic Route bill. This bill directs the Department of
Transportation to designate and mark a route along the Rock
River, in order to increase public appreciation of the river,
its scenic beauty, and the historic landmarks along the river’s
course.
I am also happy to say that the
bill specifies that no Department of Transportation funds may be
used for signs. The Rock River Trail Initiative will raise the
funds to mark the route. Look for this bill to reach the
assembly floor in April.
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The Capitol in March?? Hopefully
Spring is here soon. Happy Easter!
Thank you for reading my
E-Update!
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