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Oklahoma, Kansas approve bills to clear left lane

Two Midwestern states have approved a change in their state law that is intended to increase safety on highways.

Oklahoma and Kansas lawmakers endorsed legislation that allows them to crack down on slowpokes who clog traffic by driving in the left lanes. The statehouse actions are welcome news to the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association. The Association says it is common sense to have rules in place that slower vehicles yield to faster traffic.

In the Sooner State, the Senate unanimously approved a bill prohibiting motorists from driving for extended periods of time in the passing lane. The vote cleared the way for the bill – HB1368 – to advance to Gov. Brad Henry’s desk. House lawmakers previously approved it by an 87-10 vote.

At least 20 states have similar left lane restriction rules, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Supporters say limiting the left lane for passing only would result in improved traffic flow, reducing the number of drivers who impede traffic.

“What this prohibits is someone parking in the left-hand lane, or far left-hand lane, and just staying there and keeping traffic from moving forward,” Sen. Kenneth Corn, D-Poteau, told lawmakers during floor debate.

Corn said the rule would add some teeth to Oklahoma law and allow the Highway Patrol to issue tickets to drivers who spend too much time in the passing lanes. He pointed out that the patrol now cannot issue tickets solely for driving slowly in the passing lane.

In Kansas, Gov. Kathleen Sebelius signed into law last week a bill limiting use of the left lane for passing only. Previously S145, the new law applies only to highways outside city limits.

The lane use rule takes effect July 1, 2009. Violators will receive warnings for the first year. After July 1, 2010, officers will hand out tickets.


Editor’s Note: Please share your thoughts with us about the legislation included in this story. Comments may be sent to [email protected] .