HB1561

House Bill 1561 amends Arkansas law to establish specific criminal penalties for moving traffic violations that occur within designated highway work zones. The bill defines 'construction personnel' as employees or contractors of the Arkansas Department of Transportation, counties, or municipalities. Under the proposed legislation, a moving violation committed in a work zone that results in physical injury to construction personnel is classified as a Class A misdemeanor. Furthermore, a moving violation in a work zone that leads to the death of construction personnel is classified as a Class C felony. The bill seeks to enhance safety measures and increase legal consequences for drivers whose actions endanger workers during highway, road, or street construction and maintenance.