(JUNEAU) - The Alaska State Senate unanimously approved House Bill 124 by a vote of 19 to zero on Tuesday. Sponsored by House Transportation Committee Chair Representative Jim Holm (R Fairbanks), HB 124 prohibits an employer of a commercial vehicle driver from encouraging, or, allowing the driver to violate any federal, state, or municipal code or regulation relating to railroad-highway crossings. An example of such a regulation is that vehicles such as school buses, tour buses, and trucks carrying hazardous materials must stop at all railroad crossings and use flashers, if they are available. HB 124 also requires the court to disqualify a commercial motor vehicle driver for certain periods of time upon conviction of a federal, state or municipal code or regulation relating to railroad highway crossings.

"Although federal law and commercial driver training already state that certain commercial vehicles must approach with flashers and stop at all rail crossings, Alaska law currently does not require this," Holm said. "It's time we bring our statutes in line with the rest of the rules and regulations regarding railroad crossings."

The state could also stand a significant financial loss if it does not adapt to federal regulation. HB 124 protects Alaska from losing $20 million to $40 million in Federal highway funds.

"We're already past the deadline for making these changes," Holm said. "We need to act immediately, for the good of our state and our citizens."

HB 124 moves to the Governor for approval.

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04-29-03: House Transportation Committee Chair Representative Jim Holm explains why Alaska law needs to prohibit commercial vehicle owners from allowing drivers to violate Federal and municipal laws regarding railroad crossings.

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Jim Holm 28 K

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Jim Holm 196 K