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Senate narrowly approves higher auto liability minimums in 16–13 vote
Summary
The Utah Senate passed Senate Bill 149 on motor-vehicle liability policy minimum limits after brief debate and a close roll-call vote, 16–13. Sponsors said the change updates minimums; opponents warned it could raise insurance costs for younger families. The bill moves to the House for further action.
Senate Bill 149, which raises minimum required motor-vehicle liability limits, cleared the Utah Senate on Feb. 14 after a close roll-call vote.
The bill was uncircled and called up for third reading. Debate on the floor was short; Senator Knudsen said he opposed the bill because increasing minimum liability limits would raise insurance costs, “particularly for the younger folks who are trying to raise families and pay mortgages,” and cast a no vote. President John Valentine announced the tally: SB149 received 16 yes votes and 13 no votes and will be transmitted to the House for further action.
Supporters on the floor framed the measure as an update to minimum policy limits. Opponents focused on affordability, particularly for young families and low‑income drivers. The floor proceeded with a roll call after staff restored voting boards and senators assembled at their desks to confirm attendance.
There was no amendment adopted during the floor debate and no recorded change to the bill text in this session. The next procedural step is transmission to the House; further amendment or deliberation there is possible.
The Senate’s action followed routine committee assignment and consent-calendar business earlier in the day. The Senate adjourned at the end of its calendar and will reconvene at 10 a.m. the following morning.
