6/13/05-A bill intended to keep drivers from lingering in the left lane has died.
SF492, sponsored by Sen. Chuck Wiger, DFL-North St. Paul, remained in the Senate Transportation Committee at the close of the session, effectively killing it for the year.
The bill initially passed the panel only to be returned later.
Under the measure, the left lane of all multi-lane roadways, including freeways and expressways, would have been reserved for drivers passing other vehicles.
It sought to exempt drivers in the left lane to turn or exit, avoid emergency vehicles, road hazards, or directed by law enforcement.
The Minnesota Department of Transportation would have been responsible for posting signs to alert drivers to the restriction.

4/12/05-The Senate Transportation Committee passed a bill March 22 intended to keep drivers from lingering in the left lane.
Under the measure, the left lane of all multi-lane roadways, including freeways and expressways, would be reserved for drivers passing other vehicles.
SF492, sponsored by Sen. Chuck Wiger, DFL-North St. Paul, would exempt drivers in the left lane to turn or exit, avoid emergency vehicles, road hazards, or directed by law enforcement.
The Minnesota Department of Transportation would be responsible for posting signs to alert drivers to the restriction.
The bill has been forwarded to the full Senate for consideration.
For Senate bill status, call (651) 296-2887.

3/7/05-The Senate Transportation Committee is reviewing legislation intended to keep drivers from lingering in the left lane.
Under the measure, the left lane of all multi-lane roadways, including freeways and expressways, would be reserved for drivers passing other vehicles.
SF492, sponsored by Sen. Chuck Wiger, DFL-North St. Paul, would exempt drivers in the left lane to turn or exit, avoid emergency vehicles, road hazards, or directed by law enforcement.
The Minnesota Department of Transportation would be responsible for posting signs to alert drivers to the restriction.
For Senate bill status, call (651) 296-2887.
An identical House bill – HF351 – is in the House Transportation Committee.