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Minutes for HB2458 - Committee on Transportation
Short Title
Creating the negligent driving violation.
Minutes Content for Thu, Jan 30, 2020
Staff briefed the Committee and answered questions.
Proponents
The Chairman recognized Bill Lucero who presented Andy Fry's testimony.(Attachment 1) According to testimony negligent driving has become a concern at the state and local levels. He said various communities have attempted to address the issue at the local level and this is a great first step in protecting Kansans but once outside the municipalities they drive on roads at risk. He concluded by saying Kansas has several protective laws such as the three-foot law, cell phone related law and a standard traffic ordinance that covers collisions but Kansas does not have a law inhibiting or penalizing those not focused on their driving.
The next proponent was Ed Klumpp.(Attachment 2) According to Mr. Klumpp failing to give full attention to driving was the top contributor to Kansas traffic crashes in 2018. He said this bill emulates a local city ordinance that was upheld in the Kansas Appellate Courts. Mr. Klumpp said the proposed new statute will help officers to address the continuing problem of distracted driving.
Written only testimony in support of HB2458 by:
Steve Christenberry.(Attachment 3)
Alan Kailer, President, Bike Walk Wichita, Inc.(Attachment 4)
Michael Kelley, Policy Manager for BikeWalkKC(Attachment 5)
Opponents
The only opponent was Deborah Barnes. (Attachment 6) According to Ms. Barnes The League is concerned that, unlike the charge of inattentive driving, the new infraction proposed by HB2458 is vague and does not provide drivers with a real understanding of what would subject them to this infraction. It is unclear what would qualify as a careless or heedless disregard for the rights of others while driving.
Written Only Neutral testimony by KS Department of Transportation. (Attachment 7)
The Chairman asked if anyone else wanted to speak to this bill and no one came forward so Chairman Proehl closed the hearing on HB2458 and opened the hearing on HB2481.
