Rep. Norma Torres, D-Pomona, is co-sponsoring a bill meant to reduce pedestrian accidents and fatalities.
Introduction of the Pedestrian Hazard, Awareness and Safety Expansion Act [PHASE] follows National Pedestrian Safety Month, observed in October, which promotes safe transportation systems, according to a statement released by Torres’ office.
“With rising pedestrian accidents and fatalities in California and across the nation, our current transportation infrastructure is clearly inadequate at keeping bike and pedestrian road users safe,” Torres said in the statement.
“My PHASE Act is a step toward developing stronger pedestrian safety policies and making our roads safer for all vulnerable road users.”
Rep. Suzanne Bonamici, D-Oregon, and Adriano Espaillat, D-New York, are also sponsoring the bill, along with the League of Conservation Voters, Safe States, League of American Bicyclists, California Bicycle Coalition, and Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety.
The Inland Empire is the 14th most dangerous region in the United States for pedestrian safety, according to Smart Growth America, a Washington, D.C. nonprofit that promotes safe and healthy communities.