HARTFORD, CT – Senator Tony Hwang (R-Fairfield) today celebrated the bipartisan passage of Senate Bill 1377, An Act Implementing the Recommendations of the Department of Transportation, as a major step toward safer roads and more affordable public transit in Connecticut.
“This legislation is about saving lives and ensuring access,” said Senator Hwang. “It advances our commitment to Vision Zero by tackling roadway fatalities directly, while also expanding affordable transit options for veterans, seniors, youth, and individuals with disabilities.”
Roadway and Pedestrian Safety: A Vision Zero Approach
SB 1377 includes targeted, life-saving reforms to protect pedestrians, cyclists, motorists, and highway workers:
- Helmet Safety: Raises the mandatory helmet age for motorcyclists from ages 18 to 21.
- Complete Streets Expansion: Authorizes CT DOT to support municipalities with funding and guidance to adopt Complete Streets - promoting walkable, bikeable, and safer communities.
- Intersection and Crosswalk Protection: Extends parking setbacks at crosswalks and intersections from 25 to 30 feet and enforces tougher penalties for parking near fire hydrants to improve pedestrian visibility and safety.
- Left-Lane Restrictions: Beginning in 2026, vehicles will be restricted from the far-left lane on three-lane highways, paired with a statewide safety awareness campaign.
- Speed Enforcement Modernization: Expands use of speed cameras in highway work zones and empowers the Vision Zero Council to study intelligent speed assistance technology.
“These reforms prioritize human life and safety over roadway convenience,” said Hwang. “Everyone deserves to feel safe on our roads - from students crossing the street to DOT workers in active work zones.”
SB 1377 also makes key investments in making public transit more affordable and responsive to rider needs:
- 50% Bus Fare Discount: Mandates a half-fare program for veterans, seniors (65+), youth under 18, and individuals with disabilities, accessible via transit ID cards.
- Improved Transit Advocacy: Requires CT DOT to support the Connecticut Public Transportation Council (CPTC) by posting schedules, reports, and records - amplifying the voice of transit users.
- Small Harbor Improvement: Allocates $20 million in bond funding to applicable Small Harbor Improvements, particularly reimbursement for dredging projects at small harbors throughout Connecticut.
- Modernized Infrastructure and Oversight: Streamlines collaboration with municipalities on federally funded projects and strengthens regulatory enforcement of rideshare and transit providers.
“Transit should not be a privilege - it should be a public service,” Hwang said. “This legislation opens the door for more residents to access reliable, affordable transportation and connects them to jobs, schools, and healthcare.”
Investing in Safer, Stronger Communities
Senator Hwang, a longtime champion of Vision Zero and equitable transportation, emphasized that this legislation is a meaningful response to rising traffic deaths and growing mobility gaps. “SB 1377 reflects a modern, people-first vision for transportation,” said Hwang. “We’re reducing fatalities, expanding opportunity, and ensuring that public infrastructure works for everyone.”
Senate Bill 1377 now moves to the House of Representatives for further action.