California Decriminalizes Jaywalking: Here’s Why

For decades, jaywalking has been a minor but persistent offense in California, punishable by fines and even court appearances. But as of January 1, 2023, the state officially decriminalized the act, joining a growing movement to rethink pedestrian laws. The change reflects a broader shift in urban planning, racial justice, and transportation equity—issues that have gained momentum in recent years.

The Problem with Jaywalking Laws

A Law Rooted in Car Culture

Jaywalking laws weren’t always part of American life. In the early 20th century, streets were shared spaces where pedestrians, horse-drawn carriages, and early automobiles coexisted. But as cars became dominant, auto industry lobbyists pushed for stricter pedestrian regulations to prioritize vehicle traffic. By the 1920s, jaywalking was criminalized in many states, including California.

Uneven Enforcement and Racial Bias

Critics argue that jaywalking laws disproportionately target low-income communities and people of color. A 2019 study by the Los Angeles Times found that Black pedestrians in L.A. were cited for jaywalking at four times the rate of white pedestrians, despite similar walking patterns. These fines—often over $200—could escalate into warrants or even arrests for those unable to pay.

Decriminalization aims to eliminate this systemic bias. As Assemblymember Phil Ting, who introduced the bill, stated: "It’s not about letting people break the law—it’s about stopping the criminalization of walking."

Why Now? The Push for Change

The Rise of Pedestrian Advocacy

Urban planners and activists have long argued that jaywalking laws prioritize cars over people. Organizations like Los Angeles Walks and Safe Streets have pushed for reforms, pointing to cities like Amsterdam and Tokyo, where pedestrian-friendly infrastructure reduces accidents without heavy policing.

The Vision Zero Movement

California’s decision aligns with Vision Zero, a global initiative to eliminate traffic fatalities. Instead of penalizing pedestrians, the focus shifts to redesigning streets—adding crosswalks, lowering speed limits, and improving lighting. Studies show these measures are far more effective than fines at saving lives.

A Shift in Public Perception

The pandemic accelerated changes in how we use streets. With fewer cars on the road during lockdowns, cities experimented with "open streets" for walking and dining. Many residents realized how car-centric infrastructure had limited their mobility. Decriminalizing jaywalking is a small but symbolic step toward reclaiming public space.

What Decriminalization Actually Means

No More Tickets—But Safety Still Matters

Under the new law, police can’t issue citations for crossing outside a crosswalk unless there’s an "immediate danger." Instead, officers may give verbal warnings. The goal is to encourage safer behavior without punitive measures.

Cities Must Adapt

Decriminalization alone won’t fix unsafe streets. Advocates urge cities to:
- Install more crosswalks in underserved neighborhoods
- Shorten crossing distances with curb extensions
- Lower speed limits on residential streets
Without these changes, pedestrians—especially children and seniors—remain at risk.

The Bigger Picture: Equity and Urban Design

Who Owns the Streets?

Jaywalking debates reveal a deeper question: Should streets serve cars or people? In cities like Barcelona and Copenhagen, pedestrian zones and bike lanes have reduced traffic deaths while boosting local businesses. California’s move hints at a future where walking isn’t a crime but a right.

A Step Toward Fairer Policing

Traffic stops for minor violations have been a flashpoint in police-community tensions. By removing jaywalking as an excuse for stops, California hopes to reduce unnecessary interactions between law enforcement and pedestrians.

What Critics Say

Safety Concerns

Opponents argue decriminalization could lead to more accidents. However, data from states like Virginia (which relaxed jaywalking laws in 2020) shows no significant spike in pedestrian fatalities.

The "Slippery Slope" Argument

Some fear this could erode traffic laws altogether. But supporters counter that the focus should be on preventing accidents, not punishing them after the fact.

The Road Ahead

California’s law is part of a national trend. In 2022, Nevada and Kansas also reformed jaywalking penalties. As cities grapple with climate change, inequality, and public health, rethinking pedestrian laws is just one piece of the puzzle.

The next battle? Pushing for infrastructure that makes jaywalking unnecessary—because when streets are designed for people, everyone wins.