JACKSON -- Two Northeast Mississippians, who were tragically killed on the state's highways this past year, have inspired bills that are making their ways through the legislative process.

Legislation that would prevent vehicles and motorcycles from using nitrous oxide as a fuel on public roads is named after Trooper Steve Hood of Guntown, who died this past year during a high speed pursuit. The car being chased was fueled by nitrous oxide.

And legislation that would define bicyclists' and motorists' responsibilities on public roads is named after John Paul Frerer, 18 a rising senior at Tupelo High School who was killed when hit by a car during a cycling trek from Tupelo to Oxford this past summer.

Bills concerning both issues have passed the House and the Senate by overwhelming margins. Now it is up to the leadership to decide whether to send to the governor either the House or Senate bills.

It is appropriate that these tragic deaths will inspire bills that might help others.