UCON Highway Safety Bill Signed Into Law

On October 13th, Governor Newsom signed UCON’s priority highway safety bill, AB 289, into law. This landmark legislation authorizes Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) in active highway construction work zones, an important tool to reduce speeding and protect workers and drivers.

How We Got Here 
This victory was years in the making. UCON led a sustained advocacy campaign that: 

• Built a broad coalition of contractors, labor partners, safety advocates, and industry allies. 
• Worked closely with state agencies and third parties to ensure equitable implementation, privacy safeguards, and strong worker protections. 
• Mobilized contractors and workers through grassroots campaigns to contact their representatives. 
• Prepared contractors, workers, and labor leaders to testify throughout the legislative process. 
• Generated statewide media coverage through a UCON-led press conference and public awareness efforts. 

Why It Matters 
Speeding through work zones remains one of the greatest threats to highway construction workers. Despite ongoing safety efforts, fatalities and serious injuries continue to rise. AB 289 delivers stronger protections to save lives and protect the men and women who build and maintain California’s infrastructure. 
  
What’s Next 
The Department of Transportation will establish a program deploying up to 35 ASE systems in highway construction and maintenance zones across the state.  

For questions contact Gus Flores, UCON Director of Government Relations, (916) 347-6849.