Inflation has touched nearly every aspect of the U.S. economy in recent years, from the price of eggs to new and used cars and the cost of airfare.
According to Rep. Robert Spendlove, R-Sandy, inflation over the past several decades has also effectively decreased the penalties for civil speeding violations — potentially lessening the deterrence for dangerous driving.
Spendlove told the House Transportation Committee on Thursday that lawmakers haven’t changed the fee structure for speeding in a school zone or passing a school bus while its stop sign is out since 1997, which is why he proposed increasing the fines for violations.
“This section of code essentially has no impact anymore,” Spendlove said, citing inflation over the past three decades as a cause. “I don’t think those people driving those cars intended to hurt or kill young kids but were not paying close attention. Our code is neglecting this area.”
HB345 would increase the deterrence, by upping the minimum fine for speeding in a school zone from $50 to $260; and the minimum for passing a school bus from $250 to $1,000.