Bill > S645

This bill introduces the Protect Our Schools Act, which aims to enhance pedestrian safety around schools by establishing a new concept called "school walk zones" and implementing stricter traffic regulations. The bill directs the Department of Transportation to annually identify and designate school walk zones in consultation with school governing bodies, with mandatory lower speed limits in these areas. Specifically, the legislation increases penalties for drivers who exceed speed limits in school zones, introducing a $250 fine for speeding and classifying driving without due care that results in injury to a minor as a Class 3 misdemeanor. Additionally, the bill creates the Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Fund, appropriating $10 million for the 2025-2026 fiscal year to support various safety initiatives, including infrastructure improvements, crosswalk guard training, and a public awareness campaign focused on pedestrian safety. The funds will be allocated across three primary areas: $5 million for assessing and improving potential school walk zones, $2 million for crosswalk guard training, and $3 million for a public awareness campaign. The bill will become effective on December 1, 2025, with some financial provisions taking effect on July 1, 2025, marking a comprehensive effort to protect children in and around school zones.

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/S645