Whereas, pedestrian movement on public ways is an immediate matter of public safety; and

Whereas, in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of Maine and require the following legislation as immediately necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety; now, therefore,

Be it enacted by the People of the State of Maine as follows:

Sec. 1. 29-A MRSA §2056, sub-§2, as enacted by PL 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 and affected by Pt. B, §5, is amended to read:

2. Pedestrian on way. Where sidewalks are not provided, a pedestrian person on foot shall walk facing approaching traffic on the left side of the public way or the way's shoulder when practicable. Persons using wheels of any kind, such as in-line skates or wheelchairs, shall operate on the right side of the public way, maintain 10 feet from the center line of the public way and yield the right-of-way to motor vehicles.

A.__An organized foot marathon may be held on the right side of the public way if the following conditions are met:

(1)__Marathon organizers must notify the applicable law enforcement and government agencies and must secure a permit for the event, when required;

(2)__Marathon organizers must place signs at a minimum of every 1/2 mile notifying operators of the event.__ Signs may include other information for the marathon participants and operators;

(3)__Marathon organizers must place signs in advance of the event and must remove signs within 30 minutes after the end of the event.__Signs must meet all other state standards; and

(4) Marathon participants must have the right-of-way over vehicles and other persons, except for public safety vehicles in service or on call.