Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session

Minnesota House Bill HF3159

Introduced
4/7/25  

Caption

Road types on which a motorcycle may split or filter lanes limited.

Impact

If enacted, HF3159 will amend the current motorcycle driving rules by introducing specific prohibitions against lane splitting between moving or stationary vehicles and restricting overtaking within the same traffic lane. This change is anticipated to significantly impact the safety and liability landscape for motorcyclists, as it clarifies the boundaries of lawful motorcycle operation in congested traffic conditions. By establishing clearer rules, advocates of the bill argue that it may reduce accidents associated with lane splitting, which has been a controversial practice.

Summary

House Bill HF3159 is a legislative proposal aimed at modifying existing motorcycle traffic regulations in Minnesota. The bill specifically limits the conditions under which motorcycles may split or filter lanes, aiming to codify safe practices and enhance road safety for both motorcyclists and other vehicle drivers. The current statutory framework allows some flexibility, but the proposed changes to Section 169.974 of Minnesota Statutes will introduce stricter regulations regarding how and when motorcycles can navigate through traffic.

Contention

While supporters of HF3159 argue that these regulations will improve road safety and protect both motorcyclists and other road users, opponents raise concerns about the rights of motorcyclists. Critics suggest that restrictions on lane splitting could hinder the mobility of motorcyclists, potentially leading to increased traffic congestion as motorcycles will have to remain behind cars in all situations. This tension reflects broader debates about the balance between safety regulations and the promotion of efficient traffic flow for all vehicles on the road.

Companion Bills

MN SF3259

Similar To Road types on which a motorcycle may split of filter lanes limitation

Previously Filed As

MN SF5174

Allowing motorcycles to split the lanes under certain circumstances, requiring a public awareness campaign, and appropriation

MN HF5374

Motorcycles allowed to split lanes under certain circumstances, public awareness campaign required, and money appropriated.

MN SF5284

Omnibus Transportation, Housing and Labor supplemental appropriations

MN SF31

Registration, transfer, and operation of snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles and off-highway motorcycles modernization

MN HF4368

Criminal vehicular operation added to list of offenses requiring one-year waiting period for limited driver's license, requirement that invalidated licenses be physically clipped removed, and two-wheeled vehicle endorsements renamed to motorcycle endorsements.

MN HF3436

Transportation policy bill.

MN SF3975

Roadable aircraft registration and operating requirements establishment

MN SF3944

Omnibus Transportation policy bill

MN HF4350

Roadable aircraft registration and operation requirements established, and criminal penalties established.

MN SF4066

Criminal vehicular operation addition to list of offenses requiring a one-year waiting period for a limited driver's license

Similar Bills

IL HB4966

SPECIALTY PLATE FOR MOTORCYCLE

CA SR41

Relative to motorcycle profiling.

CA AB2972

Vehicles: enforcement: motorcycle profiling.

LA SB276

Provides for distribution and sale of motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles. (8/1/12)

CA SB1036

Motorcycles: special plates.

CA SR63

Relative to motorcycle profiling.

CA SCR52

Motorcycle Awareness Month.

NM SB236

Look Twice For Motorcycle License Plate