PEAC Students continue to help Vulnerable User Bill move through Lansing

Unanimous Support of the Vulnerable User Bill
By Monica Walls

On October 16^th, advocates once again gathered to attend the second hearing for House Bills 5080 and 4792 in the Criminal Justice committee. After an impactful day of testimony on September 11^th (http://everyonecanride.blogspot.com/2013/09/youth-with-disabilities-push-for.html), the legislators were ready to put the bill up for a vote.

After a brief amendment to the proposed legislation, the Vulnerable User bills were both unanimously voted out of committee. What a victory for PEAC, our advocates, and many other organizations in support of the bills!

The Vulnerable User bills will increase penalties for motorists who injure or kill vulnerable users—defined as pedestrians, cyclists, and individuals using mobility devices.

PEAC is in full support of these bills, as it will make motorists more aware of cyclists, thereby making roadways safer for all of us. We teach our students rules of the road and encourage independent transportation. This legislation is the companion to our training, and will ensure safety of these independent travelers.

Today’s exciting news came just after an announcement that House Bill 4866, known as the “hand-signal” law was unanimously voted out of the House of Representatives and is now in the Senate (http://everyonecanride.blogspot.com/2013/10/peac-students-with-disabilities-move.html).

PEAC student James Kleimola has been crucial in advocating for both of these legislative topics, and is excited about their success: “We are making roads safer for me and for all bikers. We, as people with disabilities, can make a big difference. That is why we come to Lansing. It’s a great day.”

Thank you to all of the legislators who have listened and supported our students through these hearings. We are excited to continue moving this bill through Lansing!