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Ronald Reagan Presidential Library
Digital Library Collections
This is a PDF of a folder from our textual collections.
Collection: Reagan, Ronald: Gubernatorial Papers,
1966-74: Press Unit
Folder Title: [Traffic Safety] - California Traffic
Safety Program, January 1968
Box: P38
To see more digitized collections visit:
https://reaganlibrary.gov/archives/digital-library
To see all Ronald Reagan Presidential Library inventories visit:
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Contact a reference archivist at: [email protected]
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RONALD REAGAN, Governor
REPORT TO THE LEGISLATURE
JANUARY 1968
PRESS
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RONALD REAGAN
SEAL OF EUREMA CREAT STATE
GOVERNOR
State of California
THE
OF
GOVERNOR'S OFFICE
"
CALIF
ORNIA
SACRAMENTO 95814
January 10, 1968
Hon. Robert H. Finch, President
and Members of the Senate
Hon. Jesse M. Unruh, Speaker,
and Members of the Assembly
Pursuant to Section 2905 of the Vehicle Code,
I have the honor to transmit this progress
report on the California Traffic Safety Pro-
gram as authorized by the Legislature at the
1967 Regular Session.
Respectfully,
Ranned Reagan
RONALD REAGAN
Governor
Attachment
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
RONALD REAGAN, Governor
TRANSPORTATION AGENCY
1120 N STREET, SACRAMENTO 95814
California Highway Patrol
Department of Motor Vehicles
Department of Public Works
GORDON C. LUCE
Department of Banking
Administrator
Department of Insurance
Division of Corporations
JAMES C. SCHMIDT
Division of Real Estate
Assistant Administrator
Division of Savings and Loan
Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control
Department of General Services
Department of Professional and Vocational Standords
ranchise Tax Board
State Employees' Retirement System
State Fire Marshal
State Personnel Board
January 8, 1968
Hon. Ronald Reagan
Governor of California
Dear Governor:
Pursuant to Section 2905 of the Vehicle Code, I have the
honor to transmit this progress report of the California
Traffic Safety Program and recommendations for legislation
to further the implementation of the program authorized by
the Legislature at the 1967 Regular Session.
I want to recognize the valuable assistance given by the
Technical Task Group, the Governor's Committee on Traffic
Safety, the League of California Cities and the County
Supervisors' Association in the development of this report,
as well as the dedicated effort by Mr. Rus Walton and
Mr. Jack E. Eckhardt in coordinating and completing this
report.
Respectfully,
Sailn GORDON
Secretary of Business
and Transportation
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
GOVERNOR'S OFFICE
CALIFORNIA TRAFFIC SAFETY PROGRAM
January 10, 1968
RONALD REAGAN, Governor
Prepared by the Transportation Agency -- Gordon C. Luce
Rus Walton
Jack E. Eckhardt
In cooperation with the U. S. Department of Transportation
Federal Highway Administration
National Highway Safety Bureau
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ITEM
PAGE
I
Introduction
1
II
Summary and Conclusion
2
III Progress in Implementation
4
IV
Anticipated Progress
7
V
Recommended Legislative Action
10
VI Funds
14
VII California's Highway Safety Program
17
VIII Appendix
1. Federal Highway Safety Act of 1966
27
2. California Statutory Authority
Chapter 1492, Statutes 1967 (SB 719)
34
3. Resolution by Safety Coordinators of
California, Illinois, Michigan, New York
Pennsylvania and Texas
38
4. Mr. S. E. Farin, Regional Federal Highway
Administrator's December 4, 1967 letter
41
5. California Traffic Safety Program
42
I
INTRODUCTION
In 1966, Congress passed several acts relating to highway
safety, including the Highway Safety Act of 1966 (Pub. Law
89-564). The stated purpose of this Act is to promote a
coordinated, comprehensive highway safety program in each of
the states to reduce traffic accidents and deaths, injuries,
and property damage. To reach this end, the Act requires
(1) that the Governor of each state be responsible for the
administration of the State Traffic Safety Program, (2) that
local jurisdictions be authorized to carry out highway safety
programs as part of the state program, and (3) that at least
40 percent of all federal traffic safety funds be devoted to
programs by local jurisdictions.
The Act also contains a penalty clause providing that after
January 1, 1969, Federal Aid Highway Funds will be reduced by
ten percent to any state not implementing the Act.
Responding to and implementing the federal Act, the 1967
California Legislature enacted Senate Bill 719, which
Governor Reagan signed into law on August 28, 1967. (ch. 1492-
1967 Statutes). This statute provides for the establishment,
administration and funding of a California Traffic Safety
Program to consist of a comprehensive program to increase
traffic safety, reduce the number of traffic accidents and to
include local highway safety program.
1
The state program is to be prepared by the Administrator of
Transportation and administered by the Governor, who is
required to submit a yearly report to the Legislature. The
report is to include a presentation of the program, progress
in its implementation and recommendations for legislation
deemed necessary for future implementation. The following is
the report for 1968.
II
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION
California, in fact the entire nation, is becoming increas-
ingly concerned with the growing number of traffic accidents
and fatalities on the highways.
California's long-time role as the leader in the field of
highway transportation and safety has not happened by chance.
The wisdom of the Legislature in enacting progressive, far-
sighted statutes, the desire of the people of California for
the best type of highway transportation, the dedicated services
of the private sector including automobile clubs, local safety
councils, safety foundations, and professional associations;
and the sincere dedication of state and local governmental
employees in carrying out established policies have all con-
tributed to this acknowledged leadership.
Federal intervention and infringement on states' rights is
becoming increasingly distasteful. The 1966 Federal Highway
2
Safety Act directs the Secretary of Transportation to assist
and cooperate with state and local governments. Therefore,
the theme of assistance rather than dictation is followed in
most of the material presented at the federal level. However,
federal intervention will exist. The Act contains a penalty
clause, standards are mandatory requirements rather than goals,
and regulations set forth rigid controls. Nevertheless, we
shall continue to welcome federal cooperation in bringing to
reality the best highway program possible.
We have concluded that California is in a more firm position
than most states in meeting the established standards.
Additionally, much of the problem of federal intervention
can be overcome by diligently expressing California's views
in connection with the standards and regulations designed to
implement the federal program.
It should be made clear that the entry of
the federal government into California's
traffic safety endeavors does not in any
way supplant our state efforts or should it
cause us to retard our efforts. The federal
programs should, in general, be considered
part of an accelerated traffic safety program.
The Secretary of Transportation has stated that the ten per-
cent withholding of federal aid highway funds set forth in
3
the Act will not be invoked where a state shows good faith.
With continued good faith by the Legislature, the Governor,
the Administrator, and the governing bodies of local juris-
dictions, the possibility of the penalty imposition in
California will be considerably reduced.
III
PROGRESS IN IMPLEMENTATION
Progress in implementing the National Highway Safety phase
of California's traffic safety program has been slower than
Congress intended and slower than we had hoped for. Three
major factors have contributed to this: (1) the many changes
and undetermined program details at the federal level, sub-
sequent to the Act's passage, have compounded the problem
of developing this major program, but is no reflection on
the National Highway Safety Bureau staff -- the development
of such a program is very complex; (2) the amount of federal
funds available to California was unknown until late 1967; and
(3) inadequate staff at the state level to establish, coordi-
nate and administer the new federal provisions and procedures.
Although progress in implementing the Act admittedly has not
been as rapid as may seem apparent in some states, we make no
apologies for this. California's efforts will be less spec-
tacular than some states because California has been, and is,
very progressive in safety programs, many being accomplished
4
years ago where other states are just beginning. Our objec-
tive is to protect the lives, safety and resources of our
citizens; it is not to establish a new bureaucracy or to
spend money just for the sake of spending it. The deliberate,
carefully considered progress made in California in 1967
will result in a firmer foundation for the program and
ultimately a far better total safety program. As we progress,
more sophisticated programs will be undertaken with a more
effective use of funds (greater cost benefit) and a better
balance of effort.
Excellent cooperation by the various state, local, and
private sector representatives has made the initial job less
difficult, particularly in writing sound recommendations to
the National Highway Safety Bureau and the development of a
secure foundation on which to build the future program.
Formal implementation of the California Traffic Safety Pro-
gram began August 28, 1967, when Governor Reagan signed into
law the enabling legislation (SB 719). The Governor's
Committee on Traffic Safety was reconstituted and reappointed
and is diligently working for a better highway safety program.
A staff within the Transportation Agency was formed to co-
ordinate the provisions of the safety program with the federal,
state and local agencies, and a technical task group was
appointed in an advisory capacity.
5
To date, considerable time and effort have been devoted to
reviewing and commenting on draft standards and federal
regulations designed to implement the Federal Act. Frankly,
the early draft standards contained many unworkable require-
ments. Based on the wide experience and respected expertise
of our professionals, in both the public and private sector,
sound recommendations have been made to the National Highway
Safety Bureau. General standards were issued by the National
Highway Safety Bureau in December, 1966. In February, 1967,
rather detailed standards were provided, followed by the
issuance of 13 final standards in June, 1967. Revised
manuals are currently being issued with many requirements
contained in the February standards being restated. Hope-
fully, during 1968, final standards will be developed con-
taining a "workable" approach to continued implementation
of the program.
On March 16, 1967, President Johnson appointed a National
Highway Safety Advisory Committee and California's lone
representative on the twenty-nine member committee is
Speaker of the Assembly, Jesse M. Unruh.
The Federal Act required an estimate of costs for the next
ten years to comply with the safety program and consideration
of a Base Year figure, defined as expenditures in the field
of safety for the two fiscal years prior to the signing of
6
the Act. Both of these reports for California were developed
and have been transmitted to the National Highway Safety
Bureau.
During the past year there has been considerable interest in
the provisions of the Act and bureau policies. Every request
to speak to or meet with interested groups has been met by the
staff of the Transportation Agency. These groups include the
County Supervisors' Association, League of California Cities,
service clubs, women's clubs, the California Medical Associ-
ation, and many others. In addition, meetings were held both
in and out of the State on the development of the program.
California provided the leadership in initiating a meeting of
the major states in Chicago in April, 1967 to discuss mutual
problems and make recommendations to the National Highway
Safety Bureau. (The joint resolution adopted at that meeting
in attached as Appendix 3).
Through the advice of the technical task group representing
all fields of interest in safety, and the Governor's Committee
on Traffic Safety, a California Highway Safety Program for
the 1967-68 fiscal year has been developed and is included
in this report.
IV
ANTICIPATED PROGRESS
While 1967 was mainly a year of evaluation and organization,
we look forward to 1968 as a year of accelerated progress.
7
It will be necessary to continue to review the standards and
regulations issued by the National Highway Safety Bureau. We
shall continue to comment on these to make California's desires
known and to protect its interests. Additionally, such items
as policy and procedures, detailed methods of cooperating
with local jurisdictions, and procedures relating to fiscal
affairs must be developed and implemented in 1968.
Principal activities of the coordinator and his staff will be
devoted to proposing and advising on certain safety legis-
lation, and submitting proposals requesting federal grants
for the projects comprising the California program. (See
Appendix 5) Proposals for grants should be submitted during
February and March, with federal approval hopefully being
obtained shortly thereafter. Early in February, 1968, this
report and program will be submitted to the National Highway
Safety Bureau pursuant to the requirement of the Act that the
Secretary of Transportation approve the State Traffic Safety
Program prior to December 31, 1968.
Following is a partial list of proposed 1968 activities:
1. The State Transportation Agency entered into a
contract with the University of Southern California
November 24, 1967, to perform a "Drunk Driving Study"
pursuant to Chapter 1626, 1967 (AB 2538). This
study is aimed at developing effective procedures
8
for the reduction of drunk driving violations in
California, as well as the reduction of the recedi-
vism rate among convicted drunk drivers.
2. Under contract to the Transportation Agency, the
State Department of Public Health will undertake a
study of "emergency medical services" pursuant to
Chapter 1714, 1967 (AB 2196). Included in the study
will be a survey of present emergency care services
in California, medical aspects of driver licensing,
and, to a lesser degree, alcohol in relation to
highway safety.
3. The Transportation Agency will conduct a feasibility
study of the use of helicopter ambulances, pursuant
to House Resolution No. 67. Participating will be
the School of Medicine at UCLA, the Federal Depart-
ment of Transportation (Coast Guard), the Los Angeles
City Police Department and the California Highway
Patrol.
4. The California Highway Patrol will undertake a 3½¹
year demonstration study of the effect and costs of
random mandatory motor vehicle inspection.
5. Consideration will be given to a study of the
potential utilization of sophisticated electronic
9
equipment and the computer analysis sciences for a
meaningful and economical motor vehicle inspection
program. The University of California's Institute
of Traffic and Transportation Engineering is capable
of doing such a study.
6. The Transportation Agency will continue to solicit
the aid of the private sector and increased public
support.
7. Various studies will be undertaken to develop a
basis for future programs including recommendations
for future legislation. (See Appendix 5 for full
details of the program.)
It is hoped that proposals for program implementation in 1968
will contribute to a continued reduction in highway injuries
and deaths.
V
RECOMMENDED LEGISLATIVE ACTION
Legislation will be required to comply fully with the Federal
Highway Safety Act of 1966; however, it is recommended that
until the standards and procedures have been announced in
final forms, legislation should not be enacted for the sole
purpose of complying with the Act. This State, while sin-
cerely desirous of constructive federal-state cooperation in
this field, should not blindly rush into expensive but
10
unproven or ineffective projects.
Legislation should, however, be enacted in areas of definite
need. While the Federal Highway Safety Act requires the
Secretary of Transportation to approve state programs before
December 31, 1968, full compliance is not required if the
State can demonstrate progress in implementing the program.
California can meet this requirement without enacting legis-
lation specifically related to national standards during the
1968 session.
Legislation Required to Comply Fully with the Safety Act
1. Motor Vehicle Registration - Code sections relating
to "unladen weight for commercial vehicles" would
have to be revised to provide for "registered gross
laden weight.
2. Motorcycle Safety - Legislation similar to 1967
proposals would be needed. This administration will
again recommend support of motorcycle safety legis-
lation during the 1968 session of the Legislature
similar to AB 978, 1967.
3. Traffic Courts - Since the federal standard includes
the recommendation that "all individuals charged with
moving hazardous traffic violations be required to
11
appear in court", the definition of "moving hazardous"
could be added to the Vehicle Code, if deemed
desirable.
4. Alcohol - A presumptive limit law of not higher than
0.10 percent alcohol content by weight would be
needed to supplement California's existing "implied
consent" statute.
5. Traffic Records and Identification of Accident
Locations - Legislation may be required to provide
uniform statewide accident reporting forms, statewide
uniform level of reporting, and a statewide method
of locating accidents.
6. Motor Vehicle Inspection Study - A legislative
resolution requesting a study by the Institute of
Traffic and Transportation Engineers will be
proposed.
It is recommended that legislation relating to "motorcycle
safety and "presumptive limit" should be enacted regardless
of the requirements of the Highway Safety Act; these are
needed immediately to improve the safety on California's
highways.
Suggested legislation relating to "registered gross laden
weight" and the definition of "hazardous traffic violations"
12
may or may not be justified. Legislation relating to "traffic
records" should be deferred until specifics can be recommended.
Although not required by the Federal Highway Safety Act, the
following legislative actions should be considered:
1. Establish a new Department of Highway Safety in the
Transportation Agency. This is necessary to meet
the expanding need for highway safety and provide
a central department to better coordinate the various
safety efforts in the State.
2. Enable the California Highway Patrol to utilize
"radar" in connection with traffic offenses.
3. Grant immunity from future court action to accredited
accident investigators.
4. Allow the impounding of vehicles involved in fatal
and serious injury accidents so that these vehicles
can be inspected and studied to assist in determining
both the cause and effect of accidents.
It is specifically recommended that a Joint Resolution be
directed to the President requesting additional California
representation on the National Highway Safety Advisory
Committee. While many states have two representatives,
several have three, and one (Illinois) has four; California --
13
the largest state, with the most cars and most drivers, in
the Nation -- has only one.
Research is a most important phase of the overall safety
program and California is a leader in this field. The
facilities and personnel available in California are un-
equaled in the Nation. The National Traffic and Motor
Vehicle Safety Act of 1966 (Pub. Law 89-563) requires an
investigation of the need for research facilities. A
Joint Legislative Resolution should be directed to the
President of the United States requesting the establishment
of a research facility in California.
VI
FUNDS
The Federal Highway Safety Act of 1966 authorized $67 million
for the 1966-67 fiscal year, and $100 million for the 1967-68
fiscal year; however, Congress, to date, has appropriated
only $25 million.
California's share of the total authorized $167 million would
be $11,100,000; and of the $25 million, this state's share
would be $2,250,000.
Long range planning, although highly desirable, is impossible
at the present time due to lack of information on how much
money Congress will appropriate for any given year. Congress
14
can appropriate additional amounts against the $167 million
authorized for two full years after the end of a fiscal year.
The Act also authorizes $100 million for the 1968-69 fiscal
year.
Several proposals requesting approval of federal grants
totaling nearly $800,000 have been submitted to the federal
government. These include $173,000 for Planning and Admin-
istration purposes. This has been approved, and reimburse-
ment can be claimed beginning September 1, 1967. The pro-
posals submitted, but not approved, include safety design
training of highway personnel ($163,000), a study of drunk
driving ($365,000) and a study of emergency medical services
($95,000).
Claims have not been made for federal reimbursement of Planning
and Administration funds due to the lack of staff to establish
fiscal management policies and procedures. These policies and
procedures will soon be implemented. No loss of eligible
federal funds should result from this delay.
California's enabling legislation (ch. 1492-1967 Stats. ) SB 719
established, in the State Treasury, a California Traffic
Safety Program Fund, and gave the Governor authority to
appropriate such funds to the various state and local
agencies.
15
The following is a resume of the financial provisions of the
Highway Safety Act of 1966 and administrative regulations
which have been established by the National Highway Safety
Bureau.
1. Federal funds will be apportioned to the states,
75 percent based on population and 25 percent at
the discretion of the Secretary of Transportation.
2. The matching ratio for California is 59.40 percent
federal money and 40.60 percent non-federal.
3. The term "non-federal" money refers to money
currently being spent for highway safety by the
State and local jurisdictions. This is to be used
as the non-federal matching share and, in most
cases, new or additional funds will not be required.
4. The aggregate expenditure of non-federal funds for
highway safety programs will be maintained at a
level equal to, or exceeding, the average level of
such expenditures for the last two full fiscal years
preceding the date of the Act. (Base Year average)
5. Projects utilizing a given year's fiscal funds can
be obligated up to two full years after the end of
the fiscal year. There will be no strict time limit
on the length of projects.
16
6. At least 40 percent of all federal funds will be
expended by the political subdivisions in carrying
out the local highway safety programs.
7. If, after December 31, 1968, a state does not have
a highway safety program approved by the Secretary
of Transportation, the Secretary shall not apportion
funds, and shall reduce all federal highway funds in
amounts equal to 10 percent.
8. Additional federal funds are authorized for highway
safety research and development (Section 403). There
is no matching requirement for these funds, but
research projects are being totally administered at
the federal level.
9. The Secretary of Transportation is to submit to
Congress by January 10, 1968, a detailed estimate
of costs of carrying out the provisions of this Act.
VII
CALIFORNIA'S HIGHWAY SAFETY PROGRAM
The attached Safety Program represents the combined efforts
of various state departments, local jurisdictions, and the
private sector. Without such cooperation, this program could
not have been developed.
17
The initial procedure followed included obtaining recommended
projects from the various state departments, the League of
California Cities, and the County Supervisors' Association
representing the local jurisdictions. This data was
thoroughly discussed at a meeting of the Task Group composed
of working level representatives of all jurisdictions.
A tentative program was compiled and distributed to members
of the Governor's Committee on Traffic Safety. Revisions
were made and reviewed by an Executive Committee consisting
of the three state department directors within the Transpor-
tation Agency -- the California Highway Patrol, the Department
of Motor Vehicles and the Department of Public Works. The
program was then submitted to, and approved by, Administrator
of Transportation, Gordon C. Luce and Governor Reagan.
In developing the California Traffic Safety Program, the
following criteria were used as controls: (1) the total
funds to be allocated to California for the 1967-68 fiscal
year; (2) the requirement that at least 40 percent of the
federal funds be obligated by local jurisdictions; (3) con-
formance to a matching ratio of 59.40 percent federal and
40.60 percent non-federal funds within each functional area
(standard).
For fiscal year 1967-68 only, efforts were made to minimize
the number of projects to be undertaken because of the
18
relatively small amount of the federal appropriation ($2,250,000)
and because federal standards and regulations, particularly
relating to fiscal matters, have not been announced in final
form. It was deemed advisable to undertake only a minimum
number of projects so that the amount of money for each
project would be sufficient to accomplish results and to
minimize the possibility of repercussions because of the
tentative nature of federal regulations.
The following general priority approach was followed: (1)
proposals previously approved by the National Highway Safety
Bureau (Planning and Administration); (2) proposals which
have already been submitted to the National Highway Safety
Bureau; (3) those projects necessary to implement safety
legislation passed during the 1967 session; (4) projects by
local jurisdictions to meet the requirement of at least 40
percent of federal funds by local jurisdictions; (5) projects
to develop data necessary for future proposals, such as those
relating to motor vehicle inspection and the study of accident
reporting level and forms; (6) training of personnel in
special areas which will be needed to implement future
programs; (7) surveys of existing procedures and status
necessary to evaluate future programs; (8) other projects.
As stated in the introduction, the intent of the Highway
Safety Act of 1966 and California's enabling act is to develop
19
a comprehensive highway safety program. To this end, the
attached program provides $300,000 for projects to be recom-
mended by the League of California Cities and $300,000 for
projects to be recommended by the County Supervisors' Associ-
ation.
Both the League of California Cities and the County Super-
visors' Association are to submit a list of projects setting
forth recommended priorities. The Transportation Agency will
review the lists and approve those which will materially con-
tribute to the over-all safety program.
The $600,000 for cities and counties plus $300,000 for driver
education totals $900,000 and meets the federal requirement
that at least 40 percent of federal funds be expended by
political subdivisions.
In addition, portions of other programs; namely Planning and
Administration, Central Records, and Accident Reporting will
be by political subdivisions. These should make a total for
local jurisdictions of over $1,000,000 -- or 43 percent of
the program.
Two segments of the California Traffic Safety Program are
attached -- the first representing the highest priority
projects obligating the federal allotment of $2,250,000 and
the second, amounting to a total of $7,543,000 to be used in
20
the event additional federal funds become available.
In developing the attached programs, the following additional
information was utilized.
1. Planning and Administration - This is to provide
reimbursement of the costs involved in coordinating
and administering various portions of the Highway
Safety Program that are not directly a part of other
specific programs. It will cover the costs of the
State Coordinator's office in the Transportation
Agency and planning and administration by other
state and local agencies.
2. Design Training - This program was submitted early
to the National Highway Safety Bureau because the
program was to begin October, 1967. Training in
safety design of highways will center around the
American Association of State Highway Officials
February, 1967 report, "Highway Design and Operational
Practices Related to Highway Safety".
3. Central Records - This was given a high priority
because a format must be established for a central
records system before other jurisdictions will be
able to upgrade or develop accident record procedures.
It is anticipated that either one of the existing
21
committees in the State, or a new committee, will be
established to develop recommendations for a central
records system. It is estimated that approximately
50 percent of the effort will be expended by local
jurisdictions in developing these recommendations.
4. Accident Reporting - A task force should be estab-
lished to develop, on a statewide basis, means of
identifying the location of accidents, types of
accident forms, and levels of accident reporting.
When the task force's recommendations have been
adopted it will clear the way for local jurisdictions
to develop programs of their own. Approximately 10
to 20 percent of the effort of this task force should
be by local jurisdictions.
5. Emergency Medical Services - 1967 legislation pro-
vided $65,000 of state funds for this program. The
amount of $95,000 shown for federal funds is the
matching ratio for California. The results of this
study are necessary before undertaking other projects
in the emergency medical field.
6. Drunk Driving Study - Legislation passed in 1967
provided $250,000 of state money for the first year
of a three year study. The amount of federal money
22
shown ($365,000) is based on the matching ratio.
This study should provide avenues of approach to
future state and local programs dealing with alcohol
and highway safety.
7. Driver Education - Senate Bill 56 requires improvement
in quality control and effective methods of driver
education. Federal funds amounting to $300,000 are
included in the program.
8. City and County Projects - The League of California
&
9. Cities and the County Supervisors' Association will
each recommend demonstration projects to be under-
taken by several cities and counties.
10. Helicopter Ambulances - The Transportation Agency
was requested by the Legislature (HR 67) to under-
take a study of the use of helicopters for medical
cases. The funds provided in this program would
provide for a feasibility study.
11. Automobile Accident Study Commission - 1967 legis-
lation provided $5,000 for a study. Federal 1967-68
funds have not been provided at this time because
of the uncertainty of the scope and total funds
required for the study.
23
12. Motor Vehicle Inspection - The $300,000 shown in the
program would only be a portion of the cost of a
demonstration project to be developed by the Highway
Patrol. It is considered important that California
undertake this study as rapidly as possible; if
California cannot positively demonstrate the advan-
tages of the program, the Federal Government may
require California's compliance with its compulsory
periodic motor vehicle inspection standard (301).
13. Emergency Medical Care Committee - 1967 legislation
required that a committee be established in each
county. The initial studies to be undertaken by the
Department of Public Health should be completed
before any federal funds are requested.
14. First Aid Training - Legislation passed in 1967
requires that all police and fire officers receive
first aid training. Until additional details are
available, no federal funds should be requested.
15. California Justice Court Manual - The Federal Highway
Safety Standard (307) requires such a manual. Work
on the manual began in 1963 in response to a resolu-
tion of the Annual Conference of Judges, Marshals,
and Constables Association. The manual has been
reviewed and edited but has not been printed and
24
distributed because of the lack of funds; therefore,
federal money amounting to $33,000 is included in
the program.
The total amount of the first segment of the proposed program
is in excess of the funds available by a small amount. Hope-
fully, additional funds would become available, and if not,
some adjustment will have to be made to stay within the
authorized amount.
The second segment of the proposed program totaling $7,543,000
is set forth with the hope additional federal funds will
become available in the 1967-68 fiscal year. This program
includes:
16. Motorcycle Safety - Legislation would be required,
and if obtained, it is believed efforts in this
field would show immediate results in improving
highway safety.
17. Aerial Surveillance - The California Highway Patrol
has submitted preliminary proposals for a pilot
program utilizing aircraft for safety and enforce-
ment surveillance purposes.
18. Driver Improvement Program - The $2,500,000 shown
represents a portion of Department of Motor Vehicles
25
expenditure in this area. Additional funds would
allow for improving this program, resulting in
increased safety on the highways.
19. Motor Vehicle Registration - The $230,000 represents
the cost to comply with this standard (302). Legis-
lation would be required.
20. Driver Licensing - This also would be needed to
comply with the standard (305). Legislation would
be required.
21. Motor Vehicle Inspection - This would provide funds
to more nearly reimburse the Highway Patrol for the
costs of their current program.
26
Public Law 89-564
89th Congress, S. 3052
September 9, 1966
An Art
80 STAT. 731
To provide for a coordinated national highway safety program through financial
assistance to the States to accelerate highway traffic safety programs, and
for other purposes.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled,
TITLE I-HIGHWAY SAFETY
Highway Safety
Act of 1966.
SEC. 101. Title 23, United States Code, is hereby amended by add- 72 Stat.
885.
ing at the end thereof a new chapter:
"Chapter 4.-HIGHWAY SAFETY
"Sec.
"401. Authority of the Secretary.
"402. Highway safety programs.
"403. Highway safety research and development.
"404. National Highway Safety Advisory Committee.
"§ 401. Authority of the Secretary
"The Secretary is authorized and directed to assist and cooperate
with other Federal departments and agencies, State and local gov-
ernments, private industry, and other interested parties, to increase
highway safety.
"§ 402. Highway safety programs
(a) Each State shall have a highway safety program approved by
the Secretary, designed to reduce traffic accidents and deaths, injuries,
and property damage resulting therefrom. Such programs shall be Uniform stand-
in accordance with uniform standards promulgated by the Secretary. ards.
Such uniform standards shall be expressed in terms of performance
criteria. Such uniform standards shall be promulgated by the Secre-
tary SO as to improve driver performance (including, but not limited
to, driver education, driver testing to determine proficiency to operate
motor vehicles, driver examinations (both physical and mental) and
driver licensing) and to improve pedestrian performance. In addi-
tion such uniform standards shall include, but not be limited to, pro-
visions for an effective record system of accidents (including injuries
and deaths resulting therefrom), accident investigations to determine
the probable causes of accidents, injuries, and deaths, vehicle registra-
tion, operation, and inspection, highway design and maintenance (in-
cluding lighting, markings, and surface treatment), traffic control,
vehicle codes and laws, surveillance of traffic for detection and correc-
tion of high or potentially high accident locations, and emergency
services. Such standards as are applicable to State highway safety
programs shall, to the extent determined appropriate by the Secretary,
be applicable to federally administered areas where a Federal depart-
ment or agency controls the highways or supervises traffic operations.
The Secretary shall be authorized to amend or waive standards on a
temporary basis for the purpose of evaluating new or different high-
way safety programs instituted on an experimental, pilot, or demon-
stration basis by one or more States, where the Secretary finds that the
public interest would be served by such amendment or waiver.
"(b) (1) The Secretary shall not approve any State highway safety
program under this section which does not-
"(A) provide that the Governor of the State shall be respon-
sible for the administration of the program.
"(B) authorize political subdivisions of such State to carry
out local highway safety programs within their jurisdictions as a
27
Pub. Law 89-564
- 2 -
September 9, 1966
80 STAT. 732
part of the State highway safety program if such local highway
safety programs are approved by the Governor and are in ac-
cordance with the uniform standards of the Secretary promul-
gated under this section.
"(C) provide that at least 40 per centum of all Federal funds
apportioned under this section to such State for any fiscal year
will be expended by the political subdivisions of such State in
carrying out local highway safety programs authorized in ac-
cordance with subparagraph (B) of this paragraph.
"(D) provide that the aggregate expenditure of funds of the
State and political subdivisions thereof, exclusive of Federal
funds, for highway safety programs will be maintained at a level
which does not fall below the average level of such expenditures
for its last two full fiscal years preceding the date of enactment
of this section.
"(E) provide for comprehensive driver training programs, in-
cluding (1) the initiation of a State program for driver educa-
tion in the school systems or for a significant expansion and im-
provement of such a program already in existence, to be admin-
istered by appropriate school officials under the supervision of the
Governor as set forth in subparagraph (A) of this paragraph;
(2) the training of qualified school instructors and their certifica-
tion; (3) appropriate regulation of other driver training schools,
including licensing of the schools and certification of their in-
structors; (4) adult driver training programs, and programs for
the retraining of selected drivers; and (5) adequate research, de-
velopment and procurement of practice driving facilities, simu-
lators, and other similar teaching aids for both school and other
driver training use.
(2) The Secretary is authorized to waive the requirement of sub-
paragraph (C) of paragraph (1) of this subsection, in whole or in
part, for a fiscal year for any State whenever he determines that there
is an insufficient number of local highway safety programs to justify
the expenditure in such State of such percentage of Federal funds
during such fiscal year.
Use of funds.
"(c) Funds authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section
shall be used to aid the States to conduct the highway safety programs
approved in accordance with subsection (a), shall be subject to a
deduction not to exceed 5 per centum for the necessary costs of admin-
istering the provisions of this section, and the remainder shall be
apportioned among the several States. For the fiscal years ending
June 30, 1967, June 30, 1968, and June 30, 1969, such funds shall be
apportioned 75 per centum on the basis of population and 25 per
centum as the Secretary in his administrative discretion may deem
appropriate and thereafter such funds shall be apportioned as Con-
gress, by law enacted hereafter, shall provide. On or before Janu-
ary 1, 1969, the Secretary shall report to Congress his recommenda-
tions with respect to a nondiscretionary formula for apportionment
of funds authorized to carry out this section for the fiscal year ending
June 30, 1970, and fiscal years thereafter. After December 31, 1968,
the Secretary shall not apportion any funds under this subsection to
any State which is not implementing a highway safety program ap-
proved by the Secretary in accordance with this section. Federal aid
highway funds apportioned on or after January 1, 1969, to any State
which is not implementing a highway safety program approved by
the Secretary in accordance with this section shall be reduced by
amounts equal to 10 per centum of the amounts which would other-
wise be apport oned to such State under section 104 of this title, until
28
September 9, 1966
- 3 -
Pub. Law 89-564
80 STAT. 733
such time as such State is implementing an approved highway safety
program. Whenever he determines it to be in the public interest,
the Secretary may suspend, for such periods as he deems necessary,
the application of the preceding sentence to a State. Any amount
which is withheld from apportionment to any State under this section
shall be reapportioned to the other States in accordance with the
applicable provisions of law.
(d) All provisions of chapter 1 of this title that are applicable to
Federal-aid primary highway funds other than provisions relating
to the apportionment formula and provisions limiting the expendi-
ture of such funds to the Federal-aid systems, shall apply to the high-
way safety funds authorized to be appropriated to carry out this
section, except as determined by the Secretary to be inconsistent with
this section. In applying such provisions of chapter 1 in carrying out
this section the term State highway department' as used in such pro-
visions shall mean the Governor of a State for the purposes of this
section.
"(e) Uniform standards promulgated by the Secretary to carry
out this section shall be developed in cooperation with the States,
their political subdivisions, appropriate Federal departments and
agencies, and such other public and private organizations as the Sec-
retary deems appropriate.
(f) The Secretary may make arrangements with other Federal
departments and agencies for assistance in the preparation of uniform
standards for the highway safety programs contemplated by subsec-
tion (a) and in the administration of such programs. Such depart-
ments and agencies are directed to cooperate in such preparation and
administration, on a reimbursable basis.
"(g) Nothing in this section authorizes the appropriation or expend-
iture of funds for (1) highway construction, maintenance, or design
(other than design of safety features of highways to be incorporated
into standards) or (2) any purpose for which funds are authorized
by section 403 of this title.
"§ 403. Highway safety research and development
"The Secretary is authorized to use funds appropriated to carry out
this section to carry out safety research which he is authorized to con-
duct by subsection (a) of section 307 of this title. In addition, the
Secretary may use the funds appropriated to carry out this section,
either independently or in cooperation with other Federal departments
or agencies, for (1) grants to State or local agencies, institutions, and
individuals for training or education of highway safety personnel,
(2) research fellowships in highway safety, (3) development of
improved accident investigation procedures, (4) emergency service
plans, (5) demonstration projects, and (6) related activities which
are deemed by the Secretary to be necessary to carry out the purposes
of this section.
"§ 404. National Highway Safety Advisory Committee
"(a) (1) There is established in the Department of Commerce a
National Highway Safety Advisory Committee, composed of the Sec-
retary or an officer of the Department appointed by him, who shall be
chairman, the Federal Highway Administrator, and twenty-nine mem-
bers appointed by the President, no more than four of whom shall be
Federal officers or employees. The appointed members, having due
regard for the purposes of this chapter, shall be selected from among
representatives of various State and local governments, including
State legislatures, of public and private interests contributing to,
29
Pub. Law 89-564
- 4 -
September 9, 1966
80 STAT. 734
affected by, or concerned with highway safety, and of other public
and private agencies, organizations, or groups demonstrating an active
interest in highway safety, as well as research scientists and other
individuals who are expert in this field.
'(2) (A) Each member appointed by the President shall hold office
for a term of three years, except that (i) any member appointed to fill
a vacancy occurring prior to the expiration of the term for which his
predecessor was appointed shall be appointed for the remainder of such
term, and (ii) the terms of office of members first taking office after the
date of enactment of this section shall expire as follows: ten at the
end of one year after such date, ten at the end of two years after such
date, and nine at the end of three years after such date, as designated
by the President at the time of appointment, and (iii) the term of any
member shall be extended until the date on which the successor's
appointment is effective. None of the members appointed by the Pres-
ident other than Federal officers or employees shall be eligible for
reappointment within one year following the end of his preceding
term.
Pay.
"(B) Members of the Committee who are not officers or employees
of the United States shall, while attending meetings or conferences of
such Committee or otherwise engaged in the business of such Commit-
tee, be entitled to receive compensation at a rate fixed by the Secretary,
but not exceeding $100 per diem, including traveltime, and while away
from their homes or regular places of business they may be allowed
travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, as authorized
in section 5 of the Administrative Expenses Act of 1946 (5 U.S.C.
60 Stat. 808;
73b-2) for persons in the Government service employed intermittently.
75 Stat. 339,
Payments under this section shall not render members of the Com-
340.
mittee employees or officials of the United States for any purpose.
"(b) The National Highway Safety Advisory Committee shall
advise, consult with, and make recommendations to, the Secretary on
matters relating to the activities and functions of the Department
in the field of highway safety. The Committee is authorized (1) to
review research projects or programs submitted to or recommended
by it in the field of highway safety and recommend to the Secretary, for
prosecution under this title, any such projects which it believes show
promise of making valuable contributions to human knowledge with
respect to the cause and prevention of highway accidents; and (2) to
review, prior to issuance, standards proposed to be issued by order of
the Secretary under the provisions of section 402 (a) of this title and
to make recommendations thereon. Such recommendations shall be
published in connection with the Secretary's determination or order.
(c) The National Highway Safety Advisory Committee shall meet
from time to time as the Secretary shall direct, but at least once each
year.
"(d) The Secretary shall provide to the National Highway Safety
Committee from among the personnel and facilities of the Department
of Commerce such staff and facilities as are necessary to carry out the
functions of such Committee."
Repeal.
SEC. 102. (a) Sections 135 and 313 of title 23 of the United States
Code are hereby repealed.
(b) (1) The analysis of chapter 1 of title 23, United States Code,
is hereby amended by deleting:
"135. Highway safety programs."
30
September 9, 1966
- 5 -
Pub. Law 89-564
80 STAT. 735
(2) The analysis of chapter 3 of title 23, United States Code, is
hereby amended by deleting:
"313. Highway safety conference."
(3) There is hereby added at the end of the table of chapters at the
beginning of title 23, United States Code, the following:
"4. Highway safety
401".
SEC. 103. Section 307 of title 23, United States Code, is amended
(1) by inserting in subsection (a) thereof immediately after "sec-
tion 104 of this title" the following: ", funds authorized to carry
out section 403 of this title," and (2) by adding at the end of such
section the following new subsection:
"(d) As used in this section the term 'safety' includes, but is not "Safety."
limited to, highway safety systems, research, and development relat-
ing to vehicle, highway, and driver characteristics, accident investi-
gations, communications, emergency medical care, and transportation
of the injured."
SEC. 104. For the purpose of carrying out section 402 of title 23, Appropriations.
United States Code, there is hereby authorized to be appropriated
the sum of $67,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1967;
$100,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1968; and $100,000,000
for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1969.
SEC. 105. For the purpose of carrying out sections 307 (a) and 403
of title 23, United States Code, there is hereby authorized to be appro-
priated the additional sum of $10,000,000 for the fiscal year ending
June 30, 1967; $20,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1968;
and $25,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1969.
SEC. 106. All facts contained in any report of any Federal depart- Reports of high-
ment or agency or any officer, employee, or agent thereof, relating way traffic acci-
to any highway traffic accident or the investigation thereof conducted dents.
pursuant to chapter 4 of title 23 of the United States Code shall be
available for use in any civil, criminal, or other judicial proceeding
arising out of such accident, and any such officer, employee, or agent
may be required to testify in such proceedings as to the facts developed
in such investigation. Any such report shall be made available to
the public in a manner which does not identify individuals. All com-
pleted reports on research projects, demonstration projects, and other
related activities conducted under sections 307 and 403 of title 23,
United States Code, shall be made available to the public in a manner
which does not identify individuals.
TITLE I-ADMINISTRATION AND REPORTING
SEC. 201. The Secretary shall carry out the provisions of the High- National Highway
way Safety Act of 1966 (including chapter 4 of title 23 of the United Safety Agency.
States Code) through a National Highway Safety Agency (herein-
after referred to as the "Agency"), which he shall establish in the
Department of Commerce. The Agency shall be headed by an Ad-
ministrator who shall be appointed by the President, by and with the
advice and consent of the Senate, who shall be compensated at the rate
prescribed for level V of the Federal Executive Salary Schedule
established by the Federal Executive Salary Act of 1964. The Ad- 78 Stat, 419.
ministrator shall be a citizen of the United States, and shall be ap- 5 USC 2211.
pointed with due regard for his fitness to discharge efficiently the
powers and the duties delegated to him. The Administrator shall have
31
Pub. Law 89-564
- 6 -
September 9, 1966
80 STAT. 736
no pecuniary interest in or own any stock in or bonds of any enterprise
involved in (1) manufacturing motor vehicles or motor vehicle equip-
ment, or (2) constructing highways, nor shall he engage in any other
business, vocation, or employment. The Administrator shall perform
such duties as are delegated to him by the Secretary. On highway
matters the Administrator shall consult with the Federal Highway
Administrator. The President is authorized to carry out the provi-
Ante, p. 718.
sions of the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966
through the Agency and Administrator authorized by this section.
Report to Presi-
SEC. 202. (a) The Secretary shall prepare and submit to the Presi-
dent and Con-
dent for transmittal to the Congress on March 1 of each year a com-
gress.
prehensive report on the administration of the Highway Safety Act
of 1966 (including chapter 4 of title 23 of the United States Code)
for the preceding calendar year. Such report should include but not
be restricted to (1) a thorough statistical compilation of the accidents
and injuries occurring in such year; (2) a list of all safety standards
issued or in effect in such year; (3) the scope of observance of applica-
ble Federal standards; (4) a statement of enforcement actions includ-
ing judicial decisions, settlements, or pending litigation during the
year; (5) a summary of all current research grants and contracts to-
gether with a description of the problems to be considered by such
grants and contracts; (6) an analysis and evaluation of completed re-
search activities and technological progress achieved during such year
together with the relevant policy recommendations flowing therefrom;
(7) the effectiveness of State highway safety programs (including
local highway safety programs) and (8) the extent to which technical
information was being disseminated to the scientific community and
consumer-oriented material was made available to the motoring public.
Recommendations
(b) The annual report shall also contain such recommendations for
for additional
additional legislation as the Secretary deems necessary to promote
legislation.
cooperation among the several States in the improvement of highway
safety and to strengthen the national highway safety program.
Report to
SEC. 203. The Secretary of Commerce shall report to Congress, not
Congress.
later than July 1, 1967, all standards to be initially applied in carrying
out section 402 of title 23 of the United States Code.
Effect of alco-
SEC. 204. The Secretary of Commerce shall make a thorough and
hol on highway
complete study of the relationship between the consumption of alcohol
safety and
and its effect upon highway safety and drivers of motor vehicles, in
drivers, study.
consultation with such other government and private agencies as may
be necessary. Such study shall cover review and evaluation of
State and local laws and enforcement methods and procedures relating
to driving under the influence of alcohol, State and local programs for
the treatment of alcoholism, and such other aspects of this overall
problem as may be useful. The results of this study shall be reported
to the Congress by the Secretary on or before July 1, 1967, and shall
include recommendations for legislation if warranted.
SEC. 205. The Federal Highway Administrator and any other officer
who may subsequent to the date of enactment of this Act become the
operating head of the Bureau of Public Roads shall receive compen-
sation at the rate prescribed for level IV of the Federal Executive
Salary Schedule established by the Federal Executive Salary Act of
78 Stat. 419.
1964.
5 USC 2211.
SEC. 206. Section 105 of title 23, United States Code, is hereby
amended by adding the following subsection at the end thereof:
Priority
"(e) In approving programs for projects on the Federal-aid systems
projects.
pursuant to chapter 1 of this title, the Secretary shall give priority to
those projects which incorporate improved standards and features
with safety benefits."
32
September 9, 1966
- 7 -
Pub. Law 89-564
80 STAT. 737
SEC. 207. In order to provide the basis for evaluating the continu- Estimate
of
ing programs authorized by this Act, and to furnish the Congress with cost.
the information necessary for authorization of appropriations for
fiscal years beginning after June 30, 1969, the Secretary, in cooperation
with the Governors or the appropriate State highway safety agencies,
shall make a detailed estimate of the cost of carrying out the provisions
of this Act. The Secretary shall submit such detailed estimate and
recommendations for Federal, State, and local matching funds to the
Congress not later than January 10, 1968.
SEC. 208. This Act may be cited as the "Highway Safety Act of Short title.
1966".
Approved September 9, 1966, 1:11 p.m.
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
HOUSE REPORTS: No. 1700 accompanying H. R. 13290 (Comm. on
Public Works) and No. 1920 (Comm. of Conference).
SENATE REPORT No. 1302 (Comm. on Public Works).
CONGRESSIONAL RECORD, Vol. 112 (1966):
June 24 : Considered and passed Senate.
June 27: Reconsidered and passed Senate.
Aug. 18: Considered and passed House, amended, in lieu of
H. R. 13290.
Aug. 31: House agreed to conference report.
Sept. 1: Senate adopted conference report.
GPO 65-139
33
Senate Bill No. 719
CHAPTER 1492
An act to add Section 2402.5 to, and to add Chapter 5 (com-
mencing with Section 2900) to Division 2 of, the Vehicle
Code, relating to motor vehicle safety, declaring the urgency
thereof, to take effect immediately.
[Approved by Governor August 28, 1967. Filed with
Secretary of State August 28, 1967.]
The people of the State of California do enact as follows:
SECTION 1. Section 2402.5 is added to the Vehicle Code,
to read:
2402.5. The commissioner shall, after he has considered
motor vehicle safety standards adopted pursuant to the Na-
tional Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966 (15 U.S.C.,
Sec. 1381 et seq.), adopt and enforce regulations identical to
such standards with respect to any motor vehicle or item of
motor vehicle equipment applicable to the same aspect of per-
formance of such vehicle or item of equipment.
Following adoption of such regulations, the commissioner
may test vehicles and specific types of equipment for com-
pliance with the federal standards. In formulating test pro-
cedures, the commissioner shall review and consider test pro-
cedures utilized for compliance with the federal standards. If
such vehicle or equipment does not conform to regulations
adopted by the commissioner, no person shall sell or offer for
sale any such vehicle or equipment.
In the absence of a motor vehicle safety standard adopted
pursuant to the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act
of 1966 (15 U.S.C., Sec. 1381 et seq.) or if any such standard
is not applicable to vehicles or equipment manufactured and
first sold in California, the commissioner may require vehicles
and specific types of equipment to be tested and approved for
compliance with the requirements of this code or any regula-
tion adopted pursuant to this code, such test to be conducted
pursuant to the provisions of Article 16 (commencing with
Section 26100) of Chapter 2 of Division 12 of this code. If such
vehicle or equipment does not conform to the provisions of
this code or to regulations adopted by the commissioner, no
person shall sell or offer for sale any such vehicle or equipment.
As used in this section, "motor vehicle safety standard"
means a minimum standard for motor vehicle performance, or
34
- 2 -
motor vehicle equipment performance which is practicable,
which meets the need for motor vehicle safety and which pro-
vides objective criteria. A federal motor vehicle safety stand-
ard which conflicts with an equipment provision of this code
applicable to the same aspect of performance shall supersede
that specific provision of this code with respect to vehicles in
compliance with the federal motor vehicle safety standard
that was in effect at the time of sale.
SEC. 2. Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 2900) is
added to Division 2 of the Vehicle Code, to read:
CHAPTER 5. CALIFORNIA TRAFFIC SAFETY PROGRAM
2900. There shall be established in this state, the California
Traffic Safety Program, which shall consist of a comprehen-
sive plan in conformity with the laws of this state to reduce
traffic accidents and deaths, injuries, and property damage
resulting therefrom. Such program shall include, but not be
limited to, provisions, to improve driver performance, includ-
ing, but not limited to, driver education, driver testing to
determine proficiency to operate motor vehicles, driver exam-
inations and driver licensing, and, to improve pedestrian
performance. In addition such program shall include, but not
be limited to, provisions for an effective record system of
accidents, including injuries and deaths resulting therefrom;
accident investigations to determine the probable causes of
accidents, injuries, and deaths; vehicle registration, operation,
and inspection; highway design and maintenance including
lighting, markings, and surface treatment; traffic control; ve-
hicle codes and laws; surveillance of traffic for detection and
correction of high or potentially high accident locations; and
emergency services.
2901. The California Traffic Safety Program shall be pre-
pared by the Administrator of Transportation. The Governor
shall be responsible for the administration of the program, and
shall have final approval of all phases of the program, and
may take all action necessary to secure the full benefits avail-
able to the program under the federal Highway Safety Act
of 1966, and any amendments thereto.
2902. To the maximum extent permitted by federal law
and regulations and the laws of this state, the Governor may
delegate to the Administrator of Transportation any power or
authority necessary to administer the program, and the admin-
istrator may exercise such power or authority once delegated.
2903. The Governor may establish an Advisory Committee
on the California Traffic Safety Program which shall consist
of various officials of state and local government and other
persons who are interested in the establishment of a compre-
35
- 3 -
hensive program of traffic safety in this state including, but
not limited to, representatives of agriculture, railroads, the
Institute of Transportation and Traffic Engineering of the
University of California, the motor vehicle manufacturing in-
dustry, the automobile aftermarket equipment servicing and
manufacturing industry, automobile dealers, the trucking in-
dustry, labor, motor vehicle user organizations, and traffic
safety organizations.
2904. The California Traffic Safety Program shall include
a local traffic safety program designed to encourage the politi-
cal subdivisions of this state to establish traffic safety programs
consistent with the objectives of the California Traffic Safety
Program.
2905. On or before the fifth legislative day of the 1968
legislative session and each year thereafter, the Governor shall
submit a report to the Legislature through such interim com-
mittee or committees as may be designated by legislative reso-
lution. Such report shall include a detailed presentation of
the California Traffic Safety Program, a statement concerning
the progress made in implementing the program and recom-
mendations concerning possible legislative action deemed nec-
essary or desirable to implement the program.
2906. The California Traffic Safety Program Fund is
hereby created in the State Treasury to consist of the funds
referred to in Section 2907.
2907. Any funds which are appropriated by Congress for
the purposes of carrying out Section 402 of Title 23, United
States Code (P.L. 89-564; 80 Stats. 731) and which are appor-
tioned to this state by the Secretary of Commerce pursuant to
Section 402 of Title 23, United States Code (P.L. 89-564; 80
Stats. 731) are continuously appropriated for the purposes
and uses of the California Traffic Safety Program.
2908. The Governor shall apportion any funds contained
in the California Traffic Safety Program Fund among the
various state agencies and local political subdivisions as shall
effectuate the purposes of the program, and, in accordance
with any federal formula for apportionment or other federal
requirements as contained in federal enactments, regulations,
or standards promulgated by the Secretary of Commerce.
2909. Any local political subdivision of this state, includ-
ing, but not limited to, a city, a county, a city and county,
a district, or a special district, is authorized to participate in
a local traffic safety program within its jurisdiction if such
local program is approved by the Governor; provided, how-
ever, that any local political subdivision may participate in a
traffic safety program other than that promulgated pursuant
to the federal Highway Safety Act of 1966.
36
- 4 -
2910. Such local political subdivision may use, in imple-
menting its local traffic safety program, any funds which are
apportioned to it from the California Traffic Safety Program
Fund by the Governor pursuant to Section 2908.
SEC. 3. This act is an urgency statute necessary for the
immediate preservation of the public peace, health or safety
within the meaning of Article IV of the Constitution and
shall go into immediate effect. The facts constituting such
necessity are:
Federal standards have been promulgated pursuant to the
federal Highway Safety Act of 1966, and it is imperative that
California implement such standards as soon as possible in
order not to suffer a cut in federal funds granted to the state.
37
RESOLUTION
Whereas, representatives of the states of California, Illinois, Michigan,
New York, Pennsylvania, and Texas, meeting in Chicago, Illinois on
April 24-25, 1967 to discuss their common problems relating to the
Highway Safety Act of 1966, have exchanged their views and discussed
in detail the intent, significance, and effect of the provisions of the
Draft Highway Safety Program Standards published by the National
Highway Safety Bureau, and;
Whereas, it is deemed desirable to present these views and positions
relative to the Highway Safety Program to the appropriate Federal
authorities for consideration in the implementation of the Program by
the several states,
Be it resolved by these representatives that:
1. It is the intent of their respective States to whole-
heartedly support the provisions of the Highway Safety
Program to the limits of their means and abilities.
2. The Federal Funds appropriated by the Congress to
assist these states and local governments are grossly
inadequate to simultaneously implement all elements of
the proposed Program within a reasonable period of time.
3. Consistent with the goals of the total Program, each
state should be permitted to establish priorities for the
implementation of the standards in accordance with their
respective needs, levels of local public support, and
abilities to finance.
38
RESOLUTION
Page Two
4. The Secretary of Transportation should continue to apportion
Federal Aid Highway Funds to all States having an approved
Highway Safety Program, disregarding any State's failure
to implement all standards included in its approved
Program solely because of such State's inability, or
the inability of its political subdivisions, to finance
the entire Program.
5.
We urge that administrative procedures permit the
program proposal, record maintenance, fund disbursement,
claiming of reimbursement, and auditing of accounts to
be accomplished on a program rather than a project basis.
6.
It is urged that the National Highway Safety Bureau
expedite research to provide factual data which will
relate benefits to costs.
39
RESOLUTION
Page Three
Be it further resolved that copies of the Resolution be submitted to the
National Highway Safety Bureau.
Adopted April 25, 1967 by the undersigned representatives of the following
States:
JACK E. ECKHARDT
Transportation Safety Coordinator
Representing the State of California
Fram FRANCIS'S. I. LORENZ Lawy
Director of Public Works and Buildings
Representing the State of Illinois
Captain, Michigan
John JOHN n N. State Brown BROWN Police
Representing the State of Michigan
Will WILLIAM NECKLI R. ECKHOF
Director, Interdepartmental Committee on Traffic Safety
Executive representing the State of New York
Harry
HARRY H. BRAINERD
Commissioner of Traffic Safety, Department of Revenue
Representing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Jmin
HOMER GARRISON, JR.
Director of Public Safety
Representing the State of Texas
December 4, 1967
1217 5 M 9 33
22-07
Honorable Ronald Reagan
Governor of California
State Capitol
Sacramento, California 95814
Dear Governor Reagan:
I would like to express my appreciation for California's
efforts in the development of both the 207 Study and
Base Year figures asked for in connection with the
National Highway Safety Act of 1966.
The efforts of Mr. Jack E. Eckhardt, Transportation
Safety Coordinator, and those who worked with him
in the development of the submission have proven most
helpful in the formulation of nationwide traffic safety
cost estimates which will be presented to the Congress
in January of next year. I have also been advised that
California's submission was one of the finest received
in the Washington headquarters of the National Highway
Safety Bureau.
While there is little doubt that these figures will
need to be reevaluated periodically as our nation's
highway safety program moves forward, the spirit of
cooperation demonstrated by California will certainly
serve to make such a task less difficult.
Sincerely yours,
E.
DAY
S. E. FARIN, Regional Federal
Highway Administrator
cc:
Mr. Jack E. Eckhardt
42
CALIFORNIA TRAFFIC SAFETY PROGRAM
PRIORITY
TITLE
STANDARD
DEPARTMENT
NEED OR STATUS
1967-68FY
LENGTH OF
NUMBER
FEDERAL FUNDS
PROJECT
REQUIRED
YEARS
1
Planning and Administration
300
Transportation Agency
Approved by NHSB
$173,000
3/4
2
Design Training
312
Highways
Submitted to NHSB
$163,000
1
3
Central Records
310
CHP
Basis for future projects
$150,000
2
4
Accident Reporting
309
Highways
Basis for future projects
$100,000
2
5
Emergency Medical Services
311
Public Health
1967 Legislation
$ 95,000
1½
6
Drunk Driving
308
Transportation Agency
1967 Legislation
$365,000
3½
7
Driver Education
304
Education
Meet 40% requirement
$300,000
1
8
City Projects
League of Cities
Meet 40% requirement
$300,000
2
9
County Projects
County Supervisors' Association Meet 40% requirement
$300,000
2
10
Helicopter study
311
Transportation Agency
1967 Legislation
$ 20,000
1
11
Accident Study Commission
306
-
1967 Legislation
0
I
12
Motor Vehicle Inspection
301
CHP
Demonstration Project
$300,000
3½
13
County Review Commission
311
--
1967 Legislation
0
-
14
First Aid Training
311
--
1967 Legislation
0
-
15
Judicial Manual
307
Judicial Council
Needed for this Standard
$ 33,000
1
Total
$2,299,000
Total Available $2,250,000
42
ADDITIONAL PROJECTS IF FUNDS BECOME AVAILABLE
16
Motorcycle Safety
303
DMV
Increased Safety
$190,000
1
17
Aerial Surveillance
315
CHP
Increased Safety
$198,000
1
18
Driver Improvement Program
305
DMV
Increased Safety
$2,500,000
1
19
Motor Vehicle Registration
302
DMV
To comply with Standard
$230,000
1
20
Driver Licensing
305
DMV
To comply with Standard
$125,000
1
21
Motor Vehicle Inspection
301
CHP
To expand program
$4,300,000
1
Total
$7,543,000