No one -- not even one of the House's most senior lawmakers -- is safe from April Fools' Day ribbing.
Rep. Ken Sorensen, R-Key Largo, addressed a House committee about a bill that would prevent cars from sitting in the passing lanes on two- and four-lane highways. By forcing drivers to move over after they pass, Sorensen said the state may be able to stop drivers from tailgating or weaving in and out of lanes.
Despite the Transportation Committee's unanimous approval of the bill (HB 1341), members of the House Committee on Public Safety and Crime Prevention -- spurred on by Rep. Adam Hasner, R-Delray Beach -- seemed unwilling to support him.
''Isn't this really just a Florida Keys problem?'' asked Rep. Jack Siler, D-Wilton Manors. ``It's like trying to put lipstick on a pig.''
Members summarily voted down his bill, leaving Sorensen looking around the room in disbelief -- until they let him in on the prank. His bill eventually did clear the committee, and is now set to move to the full chamber.
The bill includes a $60 fine for violators, plus $30 in court costs and four points on a driver's license.
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