Lauren Melo traffic safety bill advances unanimously after emotional testimony

A bill to create stronger accountability for traffic infractions, sponsored by Rep. Lauren Melo, unanimously advanced through the House Government Operations Subcommittee this week.

House Bill 807 seeks to amend Florida Statutes to address certain non-criminal traffic infractions that result in vehicle crashes.

“Red lights are not a mere suggestion, but each day I witness people who treat it as such,” Melo said when introducing the legislation to the Committee on Jan. 21. “This bill would make our roads safer and hold dangerous drivers accountable for their actions.”

Melo, a Naples Republican, said the inspiration for HB 807 was a devastating tragedy in her district. In September 2024, a 47-year-old mother died while driving her son and his friend to school in Collier County. A semi-truck ran a red light and struck her vehicle, killing the mother and sending both children to the hospital. After a week of hospitalization, one of the boys remained in a coma.

Two high school students, Carly DeLaHoz and Isource Valdas of the YMCA, urged lawmakers to support the bill during public testimony.

“In October 2025, a friend of mine was targeted by a hit-and-run while riding his bike to my high school,” Valdas said. “The simple presence of police cars is not enough. Infractions are still happening, and high schoolers trying to get to school and pursue their education are constantly being harmed.”

DeLaHoz echoed those concerns, saying the bill would ensure reckless drivers face real consequences and discourage repeat offenses.

“I implore you to support this bill,” DeLaHoz said. “[HB 807] is about responsibility, safety and protecting young drivers such as myself, my friends, my family and even yours.”

Lt. Mike Crabb of the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Lauren Donaldson of the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, Karen Murillo of AARP, and Barney Bishop, CEO of the Florida Smart Justice Alliance, have all voiced support for the bill.

HB 807 would require a mandatory hearing for drivers who commit specified traffic infractions, including running a red light, when those actions result in a crash. Drivers found responsible could face additional penalties and would have to carry higher motor vehicle insurance for at least one year.

After testimony concluded, Rep. Daryl Campbell, a Fort Lauderdale Democrat, thanked DeLaHoz and Valdas for their advocacy.

“Rep. Melo, this is a great bill,” Campbell said. “Thank you for thinking about the countless lives you’ll save with this bill, and I am looking forward to voting up on this.”

All 18 members of the Subcommittee voted in favor. The bill is now moving to the Insurance & Banking Subcommittee.