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Senate circles House Bill 5 after safety concerns about motorcycle disability parking
Summary
Senators debated House Bill 5, which would allow an accompanying motorcycle with a companion decal in a disability motorcycle parking stall; safety and enforcement concerns led the Senate to circle (delay) the bill for redrafting and coordination with the sponsor and DMV.
The Utah Senate debated House Bill 5, a measure intended to allow an additional motorcycle to park in a disability stall when the second rider is assisting a person with a disability. Representative Keiser carried the measure in the House; Senator Kilpack presented it in the Senate, saying the change would allow a second, clearly‑marked motorcycle to accompany a rider who needs assistance getting on or off the vehicle.
Senator Kilpack described how a constituent who can operate a motorcycle needs an assisting companion to ensure safety while parking and mounting: the bill would permit a companion decal to be issued so both bikes could legally use the stall when the companion is present.
Several senators raised safety concerns. Senator Eastman argued that allowing motorcycle licenses for handicapped riders and creating companion permits could be dangerous in traffic and opposed the concept: "I think it's irresponsible, for the state, number 1, to consider issuing a handicapped person a permit to ride a 2 wheeler at any level," he said, citing risks in traffic and emergency situations. Senator Pappell also spoke in opposition, noting safety issues for cyclists in traffic and on hills.
Senator Jenkins and other supporters said the Department of Motor Vehicles already evaluates and issues licenses to people determined able to operate motorcycles; Jenkins suggested a drafting change that would allow another motorcycle to park with a disabled motorcycle in a stall without issuing a separate companion decal.
Because of the safety and enforcement questions, the Senate voted to circle HB5 to allow sponsors and legislative staff to refine language and consult with Representative Keiser and DMV. The motion to circle passed by voice vote; no final vote on the bill's merits occurred during the session.
What it would change: The bill as introduced would permit an additional marked motorcycle to occupy a disability motorcycle parking stall to assist an individual with a disability, and provides for a companion decal to identify the assisting vehicle.
Why it matters: The bill addresses accessibility in parking for motorcycle riders with disabilities, balancing accommodation with concerns about safety and verification/enforcement of companion permits.
Next steps: The bill was circled for further drafting and consultation with the sponsor and the Department of Motor Vehicles.
