Local governments would face claims for harm from neglected roads

Local governments would owe payment for harm caused by failing to rebuild or maintain covered public areas when all claim requirements are met. Roads and related public areas, including bridges, sidewalks, and parking areas, would be covered. Maintenance includes work needed to respond to weather conditions. The repair need must be serious enough that a reasonable person would foresee likely harm. The local government must receive written notice before the harm and fail to take reasonable steps within a reasonable time. Reasonable steps include making repair plans, signing a repair contract, or starting work. The person seeking payment must show that the failure caused their injury or property damage. If enacted, the proposal would take effect July 1, 2026, and apply to claims from events occurring on or after that date.