Florida Senate unanimously passes bill targeting left lane drivers
In a unanimous decision, the Florida Senate voted 37-0 on Thursday to advance a bill aimed at curbing left-lane cruising on highways.
The bill is headed to Gov. Ron DeSantis.
Known as HB 317, the bill received support in both chambers of the Florida Legislature. Last week, the House voted 113-3 in favor of the measure.
Improving highway safety
Spearheaded by Senate sponsor Keith Perry, R-Gainesville, the legislation is framed as a measure to enhance highway safety.
Perry emphasized that the primary objective is to address concerns regarding slower-moving vehicles occupying the left lane.
Clear regulations for left lane usage
The bill would impose specific regulations on the use of left lanes.
Drivers would be prohibited from using the left lane except for specific circumstances, such as passing other vehicles, preparing to exit on ramps, or executing left turns.
Exceptions would also be made for law enforcement directives or traffic control devices.
Exclusions and enforcement
The bill includes provisions excluding high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes from the term “furthermost left-hand lane.”
The bill would set fines up to $158.
