OLYMPIA…Sen. Mike Carrell, R-Lakewood, has introduced a bill aimed at preventing accidents by keeping panhandlers away from highway on- and off-ramps, and will also allow police to separate individuals who truly need help from those who are simply creating a public nuisance.

“Soliciting for jobs or money from people in moving vehicles distracts drivers from their ability to watch traffic and be alert for potential hazards in the roadway,” Carrell said. “And distracted drivers are more likely to be involved in automobile accidents.”

“But this bill does more than just crack down on dangerous panhandling. By allowing authorities to pick up people begging on the side of the road, they can determine which individuals are simply professional panhandlers and which ones could truly benefit from social services that can get them the help they need,” Carrell said.

Senate Bill 6312 was introduced in the Legislature Wednesday, and was assigned to the Senate Transportation Committee, where Carrell is confident that it will be well received.

If SB 6312 becomes law, panhandlers who take advantage of motorists waiting to get on or off a highway may be guilty of a minor infraction, but will be more likely to be identified by community outreach groups and rehabilitation programs.

“This bill will help to keep drivers safer by preventing distractions on the highway, and it will help the police funnel these individuals into programs designed to help people that may not know where else to turn,” said Carrell, who represents Washington’s 28^{th Legislative District.}

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For more information contact Erich Ebel (360) 786-7395 or ^{Ebel.Erich@leg.wa.gov}