Lawmakers pass bill making it illegal to drive in left lane

Florida Turnpike

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – People who drive in the left lane could get a big ticket under a new bill passed by Florida lawmakers.

Florida Senators passed a bill on Thursday that would make it illegal for people to drive in the left lane on Florida highways.

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HB 317 would designate the left lane as a “passing lane only” in areas with a posted speed limit of at least 65 mph.

Drivers going under the speed limit or blocking traffic in the left lane can be ticketed with a fine of up to $158.

According to the Department of Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, it is currently illegal to pass vehicles in the right lane on Florida highways.

The bill was passed by the Florida House on Feb. 15.

During an appearance in Pensacola on Friday morning, DeSantis was noncommittal when asked if he is going to sign the bill into law.

“I’m going to actually talk to people who do this for a living, and see if they think it would be a benefit, both in terms of safety, and convenience too,” DeSantis said. “We want people to get where they want to go as quickly and as safely as possible.”

If the governor signs the bill, it will take effect on Jan. 1, 2025.


About the Author
Veronica Crespo headshot

Veronica Crespo writes for Local10.com and also oversees the Español section of the website. Born and raised in Miami, she graduated from the University of Miami, where she studied broadcast journalism and Spanish.

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