H.R.3880 - Clear the Reckless Obstructions And Dangers on Streets Act; Clear the ROADS Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 3880, also known as the Clear the ROADS Act, aims to amend Title 23 of the United States Code. The bill seeks to direct the Secretary of Transportation to withhold certain apportionments from states that do not make reasonable efforts to prohibit roadway obstruction. This obstruction refers to actions by individuals not affiliated with government entities that knowingly and recklessly obstruct lawful vehicle transportation on Federal-aid highways, endangering public safety.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be to incentivize states to enact and enforce laws against obstructing roadways. States failing to comply could face a reduction in federal highway funding. This could lead to fewer disruptions on highways and improved public safety.
Potential Benefits
- Improved Public Safety: By deterring roadway obstructions, the bill aims to reduce accidents and injuries.
- Reduced Traffic Delays: Clearer roadways mean less congestion and more efficient transportation.
- Economic Benefits: Reduced delays can lead to economic benefits through more efficient movement of goods and services.
- Federal Aid Highways Protection: The bill ensures that federal funds are used to maintain safe and efficient roadways.
- State Accountability: States are held accountable for maintaining safe roadways within their jurisdiction.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Overreach: The definition of "reasonable efforts" and "recklessly obstructing" could be subject to interpretation and potential overreach.
- State-Federal Tension: States might view the withholding of funds as federal overreach into state affairs.
- Enforcement Challenges: Enforcing the prohibition of roadway obstruction can be challenging and resource-intensive.
- Unintended Consequences: Protests and demonstrations could be affected, raising concerns about freedom of assembly.
- Economic Impact on States: States heavily reliant on federal highway funding could face economic strain if they fail to comply.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment is complex. Congress has the power to regulate interstate commerce under Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 (the Commerce Clause), which could justify federal involvement in regulating roadways. However, the Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, potentially raising concerns about federal overreach into state law enforcement. The First Amendment right to assemble peaceably could also be implicated if the law is applied too broadly, restricting legitimate protest activities. The bill does not appear to infringe on any other specific constitutional provision.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).