Single File Riding Debate Winds Down

A seemingly un-controversial state senate bill that sought to enforce single file riding on public roads—and became a heated debate among cyclists and motorists–may not make it to the senate floor this year.

At the start of the legislative session this year, state Sen. Kevin Witkos (R-8th District) proposed a seemingly simple bill that quickly sparked a local debate over whether cyclists should have the legal right to ride two abreast on roadways.

When Simsbury Patch first published an article about the proposed bill it generated over 200 reader comments both in favor and in opposition to its contents.

After contemplating the varying viewpoints on the issue, Witkos later issued an amended SB 103.

The bill eventually made it to the senate Transportation Committee and a public hearing was scheduled last month.

According to Witkos, the bill won't be going anywhere this legislative session unless he decides to propose an amendment to the existing law—an alternative he doesn't plan to pursue.

"I think it was good to have the conversation," Witkos said. "That's the legislative process. Sometimes it takes 2-3 years to pass a bill."