Supporters of a contributory negligence bill. Photo by Sarah Anne Hughes

A Council committee vote on a bill that would change the negligence standard used in crashes involving vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians was postponed, as chair Tommy Wells said he wanted to try and save the bill through further discussions.

Present committee members, Councilmembers Mary Cheh and Anita Bonds, both expressed concerns about the bill to end the use of contributory negligence, Cheh over “joint and several liability” and Bonds over bicycle safety. Bonds threw out reflectors, mandatory helmets and keeping bikes off sidewalks as three issues she wants to explore more.

Councilmember David Grosso, who introduced the bill but is not on the committee, countered that yesterday, saying the bill is about “making sure that people are covered when they’re hurt and getting rid of this arcane system.”

“Rather than just letting it die, why don’t we try to save it?” Wells said at the markup today. The vote was postponed until November 12.

A bill to offer safe harbor and services to victims of child sex trafficking did, however, make it out of committee unanimously.

“Ending the prosecution of these children is critical,” Wells said adding that the “best way [to reach the victims] is to foster trust with government.”

Cheh asked for a provision requiring signs with a hotline number to be installed in hotels and motels to be returned to the bill, a request Bonds seconded. “Are we that dainty and fragile?” Cheh asked of having signs about such a serious issue in public places.

Grosso said he supported the bill, but wanted to make sure the “human rights” of the children and teens involved are respected, by not forcing them into services they do not want.

Committee member, Councilmember Muriel Bowser, the next mayor of D.C., wasn’t at today’s session.*

*This has been corrected to reflect that Councilmember Jack Evans was at today’s session.