Safer Streets for Children bill signed into law

May 1, 2010
ByBicycle Colorado

Safer Streets for Children bill signed into law

House Bill 1147 passed the Colorado Legislature and was signed into law by Governor Ritter.

This bill adds the existing state bicycle and pedestrian policy into law and makes a children’s road safety curriculum available for school district use.

The Department of Transportation’s existing internal policy of “accommodating bicycle and pedestrian use of the highways in a safe and reliable manner for all highway users” will be bolstered by adding it into statute. This recently adopted policy is valuable but subject to removal by future administrators. This statute will help keep Colorado’s roadways safe for all road users.

The bill no longer contains the section devoted to helmet use by youths following the Senate vote. Thanks to Representative Kefalas and Senator Bacon for their leadership.

About the Author: Bicycle Colorado

Bicycle Colorado is a 501(c)3 nonprofit based in Denver. We use advocacy, education and passion to make Colorado one of the most bicycle-friendly states in the nation. We encourage and promote bicycling, increase safety, improve conditions and provide a voice for people who ride bicycles in Colorado. With the support of our members and numerous partnerships across the public and private sector, we’ve made significant strides in improving bicycling since 1992.