Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam announces the retirement plans of TennCare Director Darin Gordon, right, during a press conference at the state Capitol in Nashville, Tenn., on Wednesday, March 30, 2016. Before Gordon’s tenure, the state expanded Medicaid program had 10 directors in 12 years. (AP Photo/Erik Schelzig) NASHVILLE -- The state Senate on Monday sent a "slow poke" bill, aimed at deterring slower motorists from staying in the left lane on some highways, speeding toward Gov. Bill Haslam for his consideration.
The bill passed on a 21-7 vote. The House previously approved the companion bill sponsored by Rep. Dan Howell, R-Georgetown.
"This only pertains to six-lane highways," said Sen. Frank Niceley, R-Strawberry Plains, the Senate sponsor, explaining it would require motorists in the far left lane to move over to a right lane for a faster vehicle unless conditions such as heavy traffic make that impractical.
It should "cut down on road rage," Niceley added. "A lot of people get in the left lane and just stay there. People pull up behind them and it causes a line up of driving. And this bill is an effort to keep people out of the left hand lane of a six-lane highway."
Violations would result in a $50 fine.
Sen. Mike Bell, R-Riceville, questioned the need for the legislation, saying current law allows police to ticket someone impeding traffic flow. Niceley said Tennessee Highway Patrol Col. Tracy Trott supported the bill and said it will help troopers maintain safety.
"Col. Trott said this was a needed bill," Niceley said.
Replied Bell: "I question why we need another law on the books" and later voted no.