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Committee advances bill clarifying left‑lane rules, citing safety and emergency access
Summary
HB1849 would tighten 'slower traffic keep right' rules by specifying exceptions for passing, exit preparation and lane closures; sponsors cited crash‑reduction research and support from DOT and state police, and the committee advanced the bill.
Senator Greg Ledding asked the committee to advance House Bill 1849 to clarify when drivers must keep the left lane clear on multilane roadways. Ledding said the measure strengthens existing law by enumerating exceptions—passing, preparing to exit, construction closures, or when other lanes are undrivable—and cited research linking lane changes to roughly 10% of highway crashes.
Deputy Director Sean Garner of the Arkansas State Police told the committee officers could pull motorists who "continually travel in that left hand lane of traffic" and that officers retain discretion in enforcement. Senators questioned whether the change creates a subjective standard and how it differs from the current law that prohibits operating continuously in the left lane when it impedes traffic. Ledding responded that the bill provides clearer guidance by listing specific exceptions and reduces ambiguity that can hinder emergency responders.
Members debated enforcement scenarios (for example, remote rural stretches with little traffic) and potential unintended consequences of increased lane changes. After discussion, the sponsor sought a speedy vote; the committee moved and seconded the motion and advanced the bill by voice vote.
