Senate File 34 Passes Transportation Committee

Wed February 04 2009
Posted Feb 4, 2009
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On February 4, 2009, the Senate Transportation Committee passed the bill on a 7-4 vote. Senate File 34 will now move to consideration by the full senate. During discussion, Senator Reynolds of Osceola thought the first section of the bill that refers to local authorities no longer being able to prohibit bicyclists from riding on roadways was something that should be left to local regulation. Senator Reynolds also suggested that the 5' passing law might be in conflict with another section, but wasn't able to elaborate. Senator Reynolds suggested that bikes should be required to use bike lanes if present. Finally, Senator Reynolds asked what would be reasonable for opening a door in a parked vehicle. Senator Kapucian felt that section three should require bikes, not cars to yield to vehicles. Senator Noble appreciated the concerns, but felt education was more appropriate than law enforcement. He said that officers now use their own discretion in charges. He questioned if this law was needed at all and thought that they charges could already be applied in Iowa Code. Senator Hahn thought we were mixing apples and oranges. He felt he was representing more car drivers than bicyclists. While he felt people still needed to be safe, bikes were a hazard. Senator McCoy championed the bill and did an outstanding job answering all the questions thrown at him. Senator McCoy showed his experience as a cyclist and really knew the issue at hand. The bill was moved by Senator McCoy and passed with Rielly, Beall, Dandekar, Danielson, Hancock, Heckroth, McCoy voting in favor, Noble, Hahn, Rynolds, and Kapucian voting against. Warnstadt and Zaun were absent.