By Emmanuel T. Erediano
[email protected]
Variety News Staff
GOVERNOR David M. Apatang last week approved House Bill 24-11, which strengthens the Commonwealth Transit Authority to implement safety measures on transit buses.
Authored by Rep. Vincent “Kobre” Aldan, H.B. 24-11 is now Public Law 24-24.
With its new authority, COTA can establish traffic safety measures, enhance public engagement, ensure fiscal responsibility, and comply with CNMI and federal standards for operating government-owned transit buses.
The new law restricts passing COTA transit buses. It prohibits motorists from overtaking buses that are loading or unloading passengers, except when driving at a speed of 10 miles per hour or less and exercising due caution for pedestrians.
P.L. 24-24 allows the Department of Public Safety to enforce these safety measures in collaboration with COTA, ensuring uniform application of traffic regulations.
The law also requires drivers to yield the right-of-way to COTA buses signaling to reenter traffic after loading or unloading passengers, provided the bus displays a yield sign illuminated by flashlights. Violators face fines ranging from $50 to $250.
Revenue from these fines will be deposited into the general fund and allocated to DPS and COTA for transportation programs, subject to legislative appropriation.
Emmanuel “Arnold” Erediano has a bachelor of science degree in Journalism. He started his career as police beat reporter. Loves to cook. Eats death threats for breakfast.
