By Jim Stanford on February 22, 2013
Sen. Christensen at the Capitol last month.
A bill that would legalize hitchhiking in Wyoming has passed both chambers of the state Legislature and awaits Gov. Matt Mead’s signature to become law.
The bill, sponsored by Sen. Leland Christensen, R-Alta, passed final reading in the House today by a 52-6 vote. Earlier the Senate voted 29-1 to approve it.
“It is never over till the ink is dry,” Christensen wrote in an email. “I have my fingers crossed.”
The bill would remove language from state law prohibiting people from being on a highway for the purpose of soliciting a ride. If signed by the governor, the law would take effect July 1.
Reached at his home in Teton Village, Capt. Bob Morris, a longtime advocate of ride sharing, hailed the bill’s passage. “Hurray, that’s terrific news,” Morris said. “It should have happened decades ago.”
Morris said he did not plan to attend a prospective bill signing, even if he could hitch to Cheyenne.
Also expected to rejoice, if the governor approves the legislation: backcountry skiers on Teton Pass, rafters in the Snake canyon, and the mountain man Gator.
Posted under Crime, Politics, Wyoming, Wyoming Legislature
Does this mean Capt. Bob won’t leave me money on the dashboard anymore?!
wow
Kevin: Any time I give Capt. Bob a ride it’s an education. I feel like I should pay him.
Gov. Mead signed the bill in a formal ceremony today in Cheyenne. It takes effect July 1. Fewer hassles for backpackers in GTNP, backcountry skiers, river shuttles, everyone looking to share a ride!
Great news! Wyoming is such a great state!
Right on, Leland. Nice work.
Jim,
You mention GTNP, do you know if this would apply to NPS managed lands?
Good question. It will apply on all state highways, I presume, including the outside GTNP road. I will have to inquire about the inside road and other routes.
Update, from bill sponsor Sen. Leland Christensen, asked about federal lands:
(I have asked him about interstates, too.)
Not that it matters in the context we’re talking here (local convenience), but I bet it will still be illegal on interstate highways.