Last week, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI) announced the introduction of H.R. 8824, the Clear the ROADS (Reckless Obstructions and Dangers on Streets) Act. The Clear the ROADS Act is a direct response to the increasing trend of unlawful traffic-obstructing protests that have been deployed across the United States. 

“The Clear the ROADS Act is designed to ensure states responsibly stop unlawful conduct taking place on federally funded roads in a timely manner,” said Congressman Bill Huizenga. “If states are neglecting their responsibility to keep roads clear, then withholding federal funds from those states is the appropriate response.”

Currently, states are required to meet certain criteria and conditions to receive their federal transportation funding. These standards are used to encourage basic road safety and traffic laws. In a similar manner, the Clear the ROADS Act would:

1. Withold 10% of a State’s federal highway funds if the State has not made reasonable efforts to prohibit the reckless obstruction of lawful vehicle traffic on their federal-aid eligible roadways.
2. Requires the Secretary of Transportation to annually certify whether a State has met this requirement prior to federal highway funds being apportioned.

The Clear the ROADS Act is supported by Heritage Action and America First Policy Institute. Text of the legislation is available here.