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Humphrey questions retroactivity in SB 137 as committee advances the bill
Summary
Representative Johns' SB 137, clarifying vehicle-light use, moved out of committee but drew questions from Representative Humphrey about retroactivity and potential legal risks; Humphrey suggested an amendment setting a 20% requirement as an accountability measure; the presenter said the Senate is working on an amendment and the House can continue discussions.
Representative Johns presented Senate Bill 1772 to clarify when drivers must use vehicle lights—specifying sunset to sunrise and use during rain or low-visibility conditions—to close safety gaps. The committee voted to report the bill do pass, 9-1.
Representative Humphrey said he supports the bill’s goal but raised concerns about a retroactive provision. "Do you think that, with having this retroactive that they're gonna turn around and let the person out and then we're gonna end up getting sued...? Shouldn't we just say 20%? You know, shouldn't we put it like, they have to do 20% of their time on this?" Humphrey asked, proposing a percentage-based standard as an alternative to the current language.
Representative Wilk, who presented the measure as a mirror bill to a Senate file, said he understands the concern and noted that Senate conferees are working on amendments. "We're just trying not to amend both versions right now, and we may wind up getting there at some point," Wilk said, inviting Humphrey to work with him on possible amendments for floor consideration.
Humphrey added a broader caution about legal and practical limits on legislation: "We cannot legislate morality," he said while pressing for accountability mechanisms.
The committee recorded a do-pass recommendation; the presenter and other members said further amendment work was possible on the Senate side or on the floor if needed.
