January 31, 2023

Rep. Kennedy Joins Chaz & AJ in the Morning to Talk CT Transportation Bills

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(MILFORD) — On Tuesday, State Representative Kathy Kennedy (R-119) joined Chaz and AJ in the Morning on 99.1 WPLR to discuss Rep. Kennedy’s perspective on proposed legislation as the new Ranking Member of the Transportation Committee. Following an interview last week with House Republican Leader, Vincent Candelora (R-86), Rep. Kennedy was invited to dive deeper into some key bills she has seen proposed during this session.

The conversation revolved around two proposed bills the Transportation Committee addressed during a Public Hearing on Monday: S.B. 904 and H.B. 5917. More specifically, issues they discussed on the show included drivers not using the expressway’s left lane for passing purposes, helmet requirements on motorcyclists, CT’s open container laws, and ultimately, the Vision Zero traffic plan.

Hosts, Chaz and AJ, began the interview with questions on how the state views traveling slowly in highway left lanes. “Currently, there are laws in place that enforce a 40-mph speed minimum for left lane drivers, even though it’s crazy to think that one would travel that speed in any left lane,” cited Kennedy. “When I was learning how to drive, you would drive in the middle lane, slow-pokey drivers in the right, and those who want to go ahead would use the left lane.”

In her response, Kennedy referenced Connecticut General Statutes Chapter 248 “Vehicle Highway Use” that states in Section 14-220, “(a) No person shall operate a motor vehicle at a speed lower than forty miles per hour on any limited access divided highway…” Now, some committee members are considering expanding the law to fine drivers who travel too slow on the freeway, potentially endangering other drivers.

Following this, the representative fielded questions on legislation concerning wrong way driving accidents, as well as goals in protecting pedestrians and educating residents on using designated walkways while crossing. More specifically, Rep. Kennedy mentioned the difficulty in passing larger proposals that may have unique clauses that stimulate public backlash.

“Just in the last year there were 61 motorcycle fatalities and 4 bicycle deaths in our state,” added Kennedy. “I agree that helmets should be worn while riding these vehicles on the road; the issue lies within fixing a requirement that provokes significant public backlash into a bulkier bill.”

Kennedy is alluding to the changes in open container policy, as well as eminent domain clauses which would seize property for bike paths. “It’s a monkey wrench,” she added. “With these select requirements, it makes it harder to pass the overall bill, which consists of other clauses that serve to expand safety measures on our roads.”

Rep. Kennedy demonstrated her open support for proposing legislation that makes our roads, drivers, riders, and pedestrians safer, which is her goal as Ranking Member. “I look forward to emphasizing smarter and more efficient means to protect our residents through my work on the Transportation Committee, especially with support to the men and women in law enforcement who serve us every day.”

To hear the complete interview, visit: https://youtu.be/0CDbCtgB-Fw. You can contact Rep. Kennedy at Kathy.Kennedy@housegop.ct.gov or at her website at RepKennedy.com.