AUGUSTA - Rep. Bruce White, D-Waterville, presented LD 522, An Act to Require That Motor Vehicles Be Clear of Snow When Operated on Public Ways, at a public hearing before the Legislature's Transportation Committee on Thursday.
The bill would prohibit a person from operating a vehicle on a public way with a load of unsecured snow or ice. Drivers may not be cited during a snowstorm and the 48-hour period after a snowstorm that took place in the area. Individuals in violation would face a fine between $150 and $500.
Maine would join other northeast states that require snow and ice to be removed before operating a vehicle.
"Ensuring that vehicles are clear of snow and ice is a step in the right direction and will keep Maine roads safer," said White. "It will prevent unnecessary vehicle damage and potentially heartbreaking injury or death."
The bill faces further action in the coming weeks in the Transportation Committee, which will make a recommendation on the bill before sending it to the full Legislature for consideration.
White, a member of both the Transportation Committee and the Innovation, Development, Economic Advancement and Business Committee, is serving his third term in the Maine House. He represents part of Waterville.
Contact:
Brian Lee [White], c. 305-965-2744