HB 508: Improving Safety for Walkers and Bicyclists in Ada County (2026)
Summary: HB 508 would allow federal funds for building sidewalks and bike lanes. Penalties only apply to elected officials
ICL’s position: Support
Current Bill Status: House Transportation Committee
Issue Areas: Air Quality, Public Safety, Transportation
Representative Brooke Green (D-Boise) introduced a follow-up bill to last year's HB 1140 and HB 1144. These two bills promoted a culture in Ada County that roads are designed primarily for motor vehicles.
HB 508 softens those bills by specifically stating that only elected officials can violate this provision and be found guilty of a misdemeanor. If found guilty, the punishment set last year is a requirement to pay a fine of up to $1,000 and/or imprisonment up to 90 days.
The second amendment pertains to projects funded using federal dollars. Currently, funding sources are all impacted by last year's bills. However, if HB 508 passes, it will allow federally funded projects for non-motorized projects to be constructed on Ada County roadways.
We are headed in the right direction with HB 508.
