Transportation

HB 723 allows motorcycle, moped, trimobile, bicycle, or electric bicycle riders to proceed through a steady red light at intersections with vehicle-actuated traffic signals (those controlled by sensors detecting traffic). To do so, riders must first stop completely for two full signal cycles or two minutes (whichever comes first), treat the light as a stop sign, confirm it is safe, and yield to pedestrians and other vehicles. The bill specifically applies to intersections with sensor-based traffic control systems and does not change existing penalties for violations that cause injury or death, which include fines and possible license suspension. This policy directly affects cyclists and motorcyclists navigating intersections where traffic signals fail to detect their smaller vehicles.

This bill updates Louisiana laws to allow public airports to use a "design-build" approach for constructing air traffic control towers, hangars, and related facilities like parking garages. It also establishes a pilot program for state highway projects where contracts are awarded based on bids closest to the average price, rather than the lowest price alone. The average bid method applies only to construction projects with at least three valid bids and will remain in effect until March 1, 2028. These changes directly affect state transportation agencies and public airport operators by offering new ways to manage and select contractors for public works.

This concurrent resolution asks the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development to study the D.R.I.V.E. Initiative for improving Interstate 12 and its interchange with Interstate 55. The bill specifically requests an evaluation of shoulder improvements, merging lane safety, and the potential removal of ramp metering devices and surveillance cameras to reduce congestion. It directs the department to create a comprehensive, shovel-ready plan and submit quarterly updates to local legislators, with a final report due by August 1, 2027.