House approves traffic-code changes and orders UDOT study of I‑15 speed limits

The Utah House approved House Bill 406, which tightens rules on passing slow-moving traffic and directs the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) to study a specific stretch of I‑15 (Nephi to Cedar City) for possible higher speed limits. The bill passed on a roll-call vote, 53 yes to 15 no, and will advance to the Senate.

Sponsor Representative James Dunnigan said the measure addresses what he characterized as "snail passes" on two-lane sections of divided highways where slow-moving vehicles block traffic. The bill removes a loophole that exempted some vehicles from a prompt-passing requirement and mandates that vehicles unable to maintain minimum highway speeds stay in the right-hand lane and not attempt a passing maneuver that blocks traffic.

The bill also charges UDOT with a targeted engineering and safety study of a non‑mountainous stretch of I‑15 between Nephi and Cedar City to determine if higher posted speeds (the sponsor suggested perhaps 80 mph) are appropriate based on roadway geometry and population density. If UDOT engineers recommend a change, they must post the results and report back to the Transportation Interim Committee in a year.

Representative Bigelow questioned whether raising posted speeds would result in motorists routinely driving at 85 or 90 mph; the sponsor replied that engineering study and enforcement would guide decisions and that traffic flow research suggests moving with the flow can be safer than large speed differentials. Representative Noelle and others spoke in support, citing safety benefits from reduced speed variance.

The House closed debate and the Speaker announced the bill received 53 yes votes and 15 no votes. The measure is referred to the Senate for further consideration.