Committee reviews bicycle provisions: two‑abreast clarification, bike control signals and outreach

Senate Transportation reviewed House provisions on bicycle operation that add paragraph headings clarifying existing law on riding abreast, describe behavior at bicycle‑specific traffic signals, and require public outreach about bicyclist and motorist interactions.

Daniel Leonard, office of legislative counsel, told the committee the bill does not adopt an "Idaho stop" but does allow a bicyclist to proceed through an intersection on a walk signal if they yield to vehicles or pedestrians already in the intersection. The measure also defines how bicyclists should respond to a dedicated bicycle control signal and directs outreach on safe passing distances and operation at signalized intersections.

Committee members asked whether the bill changes the existing rule that bicyclists may ride two abreast. Leonard said the change is primarily clarifying: historical drafting sometimes used "may not" where the drafters now prefer the clearer mandatory phrasing "shall not" for consistency. The statute continues to allow riding more than two abreast in exclusive bicycle lanes or with permission from the commissioner of public safety for races or events.

Local cycling advocacy group Local Motion sent a letter supporting sections related to bicycle operations, committee members said. The committee did not take a formal vote and left the language in place for further consideration with outreach and education components highlighted for implementation planning.

The committee signaled interest in ensuring public information materials accompany any change to clarify how bicyclists use bike‑specific signals and how motorists should pass bicyclists safely.