New Law Helps Keep Kids Safe

Gabby’s Law Passed by Florida Lawmakers

5 years after Gabbrielle Mair lost her life crossing the road from a school bus stop, the Florida legislator has finally passed “Gabby’s Law” to help protect our children. House Bill 41(Gabby’s Law), passed the Florida legislature earlier this year without opposition. The new law authorizes reasonable changes to school paths, and requiring school boards to work with cities and counties to identify risky walking conditions. While this is a huge step in the right direction Donald Mair, Gabby’s father, thinks that there is still a lot of work left to be done.

Mr. Mair has been fighting for a change since his daughter lost her life and even with the passing of the new law his fight is not over. Though Gabby’s Law passed another bill, HB 487, which Mr. Mair was supporting failed. HB 487 was created to increase punishments for drivers who fail to follow the current laws that encompass school buses already. If HB 487 passed it would have classify passing a school bus with its Stop signs out as reckless driving, but the bill stalled before it could even be voted on.

Mr. Mair is happy that the first bill passed but is disappointed about the second bill.

From School Transportation News

This lack of action disappointed Mair, who believed that state representatives placed politics over “the safety of children.” Mair reported that he plans to challenge Rep. David Santiago in 2016 for the District 27 seat for failing to advance HB487. “I just want to the chance to go after the lawbreakers.”

If you would like more information on how you can help support Mr. Mair and his cause please visit Gabby’s Law Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/gabbyslaw.

If you or your family have been injured while going to or from school and you have any questions please contact us at 727-669-2828 and one of our Clearwater Attorneys will be in touch with you within one business day.