Caldwell: Pass ‘Move Over’ Bill

After Police Officer Eric Fontes died after a crash in Kapolei in September, lawmakers renewed their push for a state law that would require drivers to move over or slow down when passing emergency responders.

Now that another officer, Garret Davis, died after his patrol car was struck when he pulled over to assist a motorist, the push is even stronger.

Politicians commenting on the issue aren’t limited to those who might actually have a hand in passing the proposal. Mayoral candidate (and former state lawmaker) Kirk Caldwell put out this statement last night:

I believe that as a community we should support the passage of House Bill 2070, requiring motorists to move over at least one lane and get out of any lane occupied by a police, fire, or emergency response vehicle. I urge my former colleagues to pass this bill. I would also ask that consideration be given to road maintenance workers and construction crews, who also expose their lives to speeding vehicles along our roadways. Saving one life is more precious than saving a few minutes. We all need to slow down and do the right thing.