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House circles bill to update bicycle laws after technical debate
Summary
The House discussed HB 15 to modernize bicycle statutes — allowing right-hand signals, clarifying sidewalk/path/crosswalk use, and permitting flashing rear lights — and after amendments and questions the bill was circled for further work.
SALT LAKE CITY — Representative Marta Dilley presented House Bill 15 on Jan. 18, a package of bicycle-law updates intended to reflect contemporary bicycling practices and safety concerns. The sponsor said the bill would allow a right-hand arm signal for right turns, permit cyclists in some circumstances to choose roadway instead of an adjacent path, and allow an approved flashing rear taillight.
Floor questions focused on crosswalk and path language and on whether the Department of Safety should retain authority to approve lights and reflectors. Representative Vazquezki and others asked whether the bill would permit riding in a crosswalk; the sponsor confirmed the language now includes crosswalks as part of the sidewalk/path/trail references and said riders must exercise prudence in those places. Representative Harper proposed and then modified a motion to amend the provision that requires a "lamp of a type approved by the department," arguing that routine approval duties should not necessarily be codified; proponents of keeping the department-approval language warned that removing oversight could allow distracting or hazardous lights.
Following discussion and an offer to work out the amendment language with the sponsor, the body voted to "circle" the bill — a procedural action that delays further House floor action so members can pursue amendments and negotiate language.
What happens next: Because HB 15 was circled, sponsors and interested members will likely resolve technical language and proposed amendments before returning the bill to the floor.
