The House of Delegates reversed itself yesterday and approved a bill that would require drivers in the left lane to move aside for faster motorists to pass.
Under the bill, drivers who fail to yield the left lane to faster-moving vehicles could be subject to a fine and a point on their driver's licenses. The penalty would apply even to those drivers who are traveling at the speed limit.
The measure failed to win the required 71 votes Tuesday, but upon reconsideration yesterday the House voted 90 to 49 to approve the bill. It now goes to the Senate for consideration.
Supporters of the bill say it would help safety on the roads and improve traffic flow. Critics say it would protect aggressive drivers and penalize motorists who drive safely. Del. Patrick L. McDonough, a Baltimore County Republican, derided the legislation as "the Road Rage Reward Act of 2003."