March 29, 2013  
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

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.

 


 

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.


 

 

 

 

 

 

The Capitol in March??  Hopefully Spring is here soon.  Happy Easter!

 


Thank you for reading my E-Update!



 

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Rep.Jagler@legis.wisconsin.gov

State Capitol Room 316 North - PO Box 8952, Madison, WI 53708

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