OLYMPIA, WA – Washington State’s transportation is not safe. That, according to several officials who joined Governor Jay Inslee for a press conference to discuss numerous bills being considered in the Legislature to improve the safety for drivers, bicyclists, those working along highways, and pedestrians.
Officials say people across the state are being killed at unacceptably high rates. Senator Marko Liias (D-Everett), Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, says it is a national problem.
One of those speaking at the event was Amber Weilert whose 13-year-old son, Michael, was killed in July while riding his bicycle in Parkland. He was at a crosswalk and had the right-of-way.
Weilert touted the proposed legislation as life-changing.
One of the proposed pieces of legislation would reduce the blood alcohol content allowable under Washington State law from .08 to .05 statewide.
Senate Bill 5002 was put forth by Senator John Lovick (D-Mill Creek). He was a Washington State Patrol Trooper for 31 years and says drunk driving is a choice.
Watch the press conference:
