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Minutes for SB272 - Committee on Transportation
Short Title
Substitute for SB 272 by Committee on Transportation - Regulating traffic; unlawful passing of a waste collection vehicle.
Minutes Content for Tue, Mar 13, 2018
The Chairman recognized Charlie Sedlock as the first proponent. (Attachment 1) Mr. Sedlock introduced two drivers for Hamm, Inc.- Wayne Havercamp and Robert Wilkinson. He said according to members of the Kansas Chapter of the National Waste and Recycling Association, SB272 is about the safety and the importance in reminding motorists to drive more carefully when near waste and recycling collection vehicles. Mr. Sedlock said keeping their drivers and employees safe is a priority for Hamm every day of the year and with passage of SB272 "Slow Down to Get Around" will help accomplish this task a bit easier.
Hank Potts was the next proponent.(Attachment 2) Mr. Potts gave testimony in place of Jeff Kintzle, Area President, Republic Services, who was unable to attend the Hearing. Mr. Potts said they felt the "Slow Down to Get Around" legislation will help protect not just their employees but all waste collection drivers in Kansas through education and increased penalties for distracted and careless motorists. According to Mr. Potts, Republic Services places safety above all else through continual driver training, comprehensive education programs and strategic partnerships with authorities on roadway safety. He stood for questions.
The next proponent was Eric Smith. (Attachment 3) Mr. Smith said SB272 provides additional protection to workers involved in waste collection. He said League member cities are aware of the dangers their employees face everyday and particularly those who must perform their work on busy city streets. He said SB272 recognizes the danger these workers are exposed to and provides warning notices to drivers who violate this law.
Lisa Disbrow was the next proponent. (Attachment 4) She said they believe this legislation will provide another mechanism to improve safety for the industry's drivers and workers as they perform their jobs. Ms. Disbrow said due to the nature of their business they routinely disrupt traffic flow by frequently stopping to service homes and businesses. She said they were here today in support of SB272 as it will help bring awareness to the public about the importance of slowing down as they approach collection vehicles.
Josh Powell was the next proponent.(Attachment 5) According to Mr. Powell, SB272 proposes new legislation and adds a fine for unlawful passing of a waste collector. He said while legislation will never completely protect those who work on and near the highways and roadways, KDOT is supportive of legislation that will increase the safety of those who do.
Chairman Proehl drew the Committee's attention to written testimony submitted in support of SB272 by: Shawn Ball, President, SM Ball Waste Disposal, Inc.(Attachment 6) and Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) (Attachment 7)
There were no other proponents and no opponents so the Chairman closed the Hearing on SB272.
The Chairman called for approval of the House Transportation Committee Minutes for meetings on March 6, 7 and 8, 2018, copies of which had previously been sent out to Members. Representative Rahjes moved to approve the Minutes, seconded by Representative Highland. Motion Carried.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Chairman Proehl advised the Committee the next meeting would be on Wednesday, March 14, 2018, at which time they would have a presentation by the Southwest Kansas Highway Coalition.
ADJOURN
There being no further business before the Committee the meeting was adjourned.
