11/16/07-The Legislature’s Transportation Interim Committee has endorsed a measure that would make it easier for people to report bad drivers. It is intended to help people report relatives that might not be able to drive safely.
Utah law now requires that drivers be given the name of who reported them to officials. Sen. Allen Christensen, R-North Ogden, is pursing legislation that would allow anonymity to those reporting drivers whose impairments could pose imminent threats to their own and others' safety.
The rule would apply to anyone, regardless of age. However, Christensen said the focus is on older drivers.
Christensen offered a similar version during the 2007 session but the Senate rejected the bill because of concerns about people anonymously tattling on someone. Others said older people shouldn’t be singled out as the problem.
To prevent harassing people, the bill includes a provision that would make reporting false concerns punishable up to 90 days in jail and/or up to a $750 fine.
All legislation can be considered during the regular session that begins in January.