Bipartisan Bill to Improve Winter Road Safety Passes Senate

SB25-069 would allow vendors to help drivers install traction devices on Colorado roads

DENVER, CO – A bipartisan bill, sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, to improve Coloradans’ access to chains and traction devices while navigating winter road conditions passed the Senate today. 

Cosponsored by Senator Marc Catlin, R-Montrose, SB25-069 would allow the Colorado Department of Transportation to authorize third-party vendors and companies to set up a roadside station to help install or remove tire chains or other traction devices on commercial and passenger vehicles. 

“Preventing avoidable crashes, spinouts, and delays on I-70 and highways across the state is crucial for public safety and saving Coloradans time and money,” said Roberts. “This bipartisan bill will authorize a proven chain-assist program for commercial trucks that is working in other states as well as close a loophole that will ensure passenger vehicles have proper tires. It is another significant step we are taking to prevent crashes and reduce unnecessary delays on our roads during the winter.”

The bill includes procedures for issuing a permit to vendors, qualifications to be issued a permit, and a requirement that those installing tire chains or traction devices wear reflective clothing and use traffic control devices. The bill also requires that, between September 1 - May 31, rental car companies notify their renters of Colorado’s traction laws and the penalties for any violation of the law. 

SB25-069 now moves to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.