Senate Bill 76, which was passed by the General Assembly, would have allowed motorcyclists and bicyclists to carefully proceed through an unresponsive traffic signal. Governor Nathan Deal vetoed the bill, which also included provisions altering the allowable height of motorcycle handle bars as well as clarification on when motorists should stop for pedestrians in crosswalks.
Dea’s official statement on the veto:
“While I am sympathetic to the concerns and causes of motorcyclists and bicyclists, this legislation does not provide an adequate solution and presents a confusing exception to motorists. Furthermore, Senate Bill 76 would eliminate the current 15-inch height restriction placed on motorcycle handlebars. Motorcycles equipped with handlebars more than 15 inches in height pose a safety hazard due to the increased difficulty in steering and decreased control. In 2014, crashes involving motorcycles and bicycles accounted for 13 percent of the fatalities on Georgia roads, and I do not see how this legislation will enhance roadway safety. Therefore, in the interest of providing the necessary roadway safety Georgians deserve, I hereby veto Senate Bill 76.”