Left Lane For Passing Only, New Maryland Bill Proposes

ANNAPOLIS, MD — The left lane in Maryland could soon be reserved for passing vehicles only, if a bill going through the General Assembly becomes law.

The bill applies to roads that have at least three lanes and a speed limit of at least 55 mph. It specifies that drivers may only use the left lane for passing other cars, except if the driver is making a left turn, using a high-occupancy vehicle lane or in traffic where conditions require the use of all lanes.

The penalty would be a $75 fine for the first offense, $150 for the second and $250 for the third, according to the bill.

Delegate Folden of Frederick County proposed the measure, which he said would help encourage "more fluid traffic movement" in a state where commuters are seeking relief.

Marylanders have the longest commute times in the country, tied with New York, based on the American Community Survey through the U.S. Census Bureau.

A spokesman for the AAA Mid-Atlantic said that it was against the proposal, because the measure encourages people to make way for speeders, and the Governors Highway Safety Association opposed the bill as well, the Washington Post reported.

The bill passed in the house and will be heard in the senate on March 30.

The Maryland General Assembly's 2017 legislative session ends April 10.

If passed, the law could take effect on Oct. 1, 2017.

Related: Maryland Ties For Worst Commute Time In U.S.

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