Bill > HB1272

This bill modifies Oklahoma's traffic safety laws, specifically the Bernardo-Mills Law, which governs how drivers must approach stationary vehicles displaying flashing lights. The bill expands the definition of "stationary vehicle" to include not just emergency vehicles, but also maintenance vehicles, utility service vehicles, and licensed wreckers. It requires drivers to either change lanes away from the stationary vehicle or reduce their speed below the posted speed limit when approaching such vehicles. The bill renames the offense from "endangerment of an emergency worker" to "roadway endangerment" and broadens the language to apply to any individual, not just emergency workers. The fines for violations remain the same: $1,000 for a first offense and $2,500 for a second offense, with a new provision allowing first-time offenders to complete the Operation Work Zone Awareness program to avoid paying the monetary penalty. Additionally, the bill modifies the Work Zone Awareness program to include education about moving over or slowing down for stationary vehicles, and expands the program's eligibility and participation guidelines. The changes will take effect on November 1, 2025.

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb1272&Session=2600