“Idaho Stop” law allows bike riders to treat stop signs as yields takes effect January 1, 2020

As of January 1, 2020, bicyclists in Oregon will be able to legally enter intersections controlled by stop signs or flashing red lights without coming to a complete stop. Oregon Senate Bill 998 was passed by the Oregon Legislature on June 26 and signed by Governor Kate Brown on August 6. 

This is a tremendous victory for bike advocates who have worked for years on this legislation. Bicyclists can now legally treat stop signs and flashing red lights as they do yield signs.  These rolling stops are sometimes referred to as "Idaho Stops," in reference to a similar long-standing law in Idaho.

Here’s the official summary of the bill:

Permits person operating bicycle to enter intersection controlled by specified traffic control devices without stopping. Permits person operating bicycle to turn without stopping at intersection with specified traffic control devices. Creates offense of improper entry into intersection where traffic is controlled by stop sign. Punishes by maximum fine of $250. Creates offense of improper entry into intersection where traffic is controlled by flashing red signal. Punishes by maximum fine of $250.

Bicycle advocates have worked diligently over 10 years to get this legislation passed.  The League of American Bicyclists published a history of these efforts: https://www.bikeleague.org/content/how-advocates-brought-idaho-stop-oregon