New Mexico considers banning big rigs from the left lane

Lawmakers in New Mexico are again pushing forward new legislation that would force semi trucks to remain in the right lane under many circumstances.

Senator George Munoz introduced Senate Bill 102 on January 17, 2023.

The bill would require trucks to stay in the right lane of any two or more lane highway unless actively passing another vehicle. Truckers found to be in violation of the left lane travel ban would face a fine up to $250.

On February 2, the committee voted 8-0 in favor of the bill.

Munoz says that the left lane truck ban would reduce traffic congestion and increase highway safety.

Last year, Munoz authored a similar bill that was approved in both the state House and Senate but died in a “pocket veto” when New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham opted not to sign it into law.