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Senate approves sending SB 106 to third reading to allow limited unmarked highway‑patrol operations
Summary
Senate Bill 106, which authorizes targeted use of additional unmarked highway‑patrol vehicles for operations aimed at intoxicated and aggressive driving, passed the Senate's floor vote and was placed on the third‑reading calendar after debate over oversight and impersonation risks.
The Utah Senate voted to advance Senate Bill 106 to third reading after floor debate over whether the highway patrol should be authorized limited use of additional unmarked vehicles for targeted traffic operations. Sponsor Senator Bramble and supporters said the measure allows operational flexibility to address aggressive and intoxicated driving in specific locations and times, with approvals required by senior public-safety officials.
Supporters cited safety and enforcement gaps, saying visibility alone cannot address high-risk aggressive drivers. "When they've used these unmarked vehicles to address specific problems, the numbers of violations have gone down significantly," Senator Knudson said in response to concerns about misuse. They emphasized requirements in the bill—such as preapproval by the commissioner of public safety and a restriction to targeted operations—intended to limit routine unmarked enforcement.
Opponents raised concerns about impersonation and the public's ability to identify officers. Senator Allen and others described worries from constituents about being stopped by unmarked vehicles and noted recent news reports of impersonation crimes; supporters replied that the bill requires uniformed officers and supervisory approval for operations.
On roll call the Senate recorded 15 yes votes, 11 no votes and 3 absent; the bill was passed to the third‑reading calendar.
