SW Georgia News

Washington, D.C.—Representative Mike Collins (R-Ga.) has announced his plans to introduce the House Companion to S. 192, the Safe Passage on Interstates Act. This legislation aims to make the intentional obstruction of interstate highways illegal. The bill was initially introduced in the Senate by Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) on January 31, 2023.

In a statement, Rep. Mike Collins emphasized the importance of this legislation for the freedom of transportation and safety on the roads. He highlighted how millions of Americans rely on interstate highways for their everyday activities. Collins expressed concern over protestors who block and impede traffic, jeopardizing the safety of themselves and others. He also mentioned that such actions hinder first responders from reaching community emergencies. Collins stated, "This bill gives law enforcement the tools necessary to deal with people who intentionally block highways like the pro-Hamas activists who caused mass traffic disruption across D.C. earlier this month."

Senator Marco Rubio echoed Collins' sentiments, emphasizing the impact of highway blockades on law-abiding citizens. Rubio stated, "Pro-Hamas radicals and other protesters who block highways disrupt law-abiding Americans from driving to work, school buses from getting kids to school, and ambulances from getting to the hospital. Several states already prohibit this conduct; however, there is no federal law against this type of stunt. It's time for Congress to do its part. We need to make sure people face criminal penalties for blocking interstate systems that we all rely on."

Currently, some states have laws that criminalize the act of blocking interstate highways. However, there is no federal law addressing this issue. The Safe Passage on Interstates Act aims to fill this gap. The legislation would make it unlawful to knowingly engage in activities on an interstate highway with the intent to obstruct the free, convenient, and normal use of the roadway.

By introducing the House Companion to S. 192, Representative Mike Collins aims to address the issue of intentional obstruction of interstate highways at the federal level. This legislation seeks to ensure the smooth flow of traffic and the safety of all road users. The bill has already garnered support from Senator Marco Rubio and is expected to gain traction in Congress.