Idaho 2026 Regular Session

Agenda Mar 12th, 2026

House Transportation and Defense Committee

Key Moments

  • Mike Pohanka — Confirmed the March 10th minutes and made the motion to approve them as printed.
  • Clay Handy — Was recognized in connection with a proposed amendment to the motion.
  • Clay Handy — Representative Handy was discussed in connection with a bill involving a plate or bumper sticker issue; the discussion included a question about whether the plate would be as effective as a bumper sticker in avoiding consequences when pulled over, followed by the note that Representative Handy would carry the bill on the floor.
  • Charlie Shepherd — Representative Charlie Shepherd was called on and then asked the sponsor how the bill would apply in congested traffic, including whether drivers in the left lane could be cited, and sought clarification that the bill would not interfere with normal rush-hour lane usage.
  • Charlie Shepherd — Representative Shepard expressed support for the bill, joking that his own frustration with traffic behavior helped explain why it was needed. He then raised a cautionary example from Seattle and Portland, warning against turning the measure into an HOV-style restriction that would leave one lane open while others are stopped. He concluded that the bill is good so long as it keeps all lanes moving and avoids limiting traffic flow during rush hour.
  • John Gannon — Asked about when it would be appropriate to move into the left lane and whether staying there would be illegal.
  • James Holtzclaw — Explained that driving in the left lane is not illegal if traffic is flowing and law enforcement would only object if traffic is being backed up.
  • James Holtzclaw — Continued explaining that enforcement would be discretionary based on safety and traffic conditions.
  • James Holtzclaw — Asked why the bill is needed now.
  • James Holtzclaw — Questioned the need for the bill now and asked why it was not needed decades earlier.
  • James Holtzclaw — Responded that population growth and congestion are the reasons for the bill now.
  • James Holtzclaw — Explained that the bill is needed because of growth and congestion, and said drivers have forgotten basic passing rules.
  • James Holtzclaw — Agreed that the bill would discourage people from trying to enforce the speed limit themselves.
  • James Holtzclaw — Referenced by Representative Shepard in explaining why the bill is needed.
  • James Holtzclaw — Referenced as having asked why the bill is needed now.
  • James Holtzclaw — Thanked after the motion carried; likely the sponsor being recognized.
  • Michael Veile — Asked whether the bill would make it illegal to intentionally clog lanes or drive at the minimum speed in protest.
  • Matthew Condy — Matthew Condy of AAA Idaho presented survey findings on driver behavior, comparing recent results with research from 10–11 years earlier and highlighting increases in aggressive driving, including honking out of anger and angry gestures. He also cited additional statistics such as passing in the slow lane and argued that the bill is beneficial because it adds clarity and could help reduce aggressive driving.
  • Mike Kane — Indicated he was available to answer questions if needed.
  • Josh — Appears to be another witness or attendee indicating similar availability, though the full name is unclear.
  • Mr. Joe — Appears to be another witness or attendee indicating similar availability, though the full name is unclear.
  • James Petzke — Identified as carrying the bill on the floor, though this may be a transcription error for another member.
  • Stephanie Mickelsen — Senator Lori Den Hartog introduced herself and presented the specialty license plate bill, joking about the irony of supporting a license plate measure after previously being the only legislator to vote against a similar plate. She explained that the bill is part of a broader effort to help Idaho State Police pay, and described the proposed plate as a white plate with black lettering that says Idaho, with proceeds directed to Idaho State Police.