MS HB156

Grants bicyclists all rights and duties of vehicle drivers, except as modified by this act, when operating on roadways, highways, or bicycle paths.

Requires bicyclists to ride in designated bicycle lanes when available (except to pass or avoid obstructions) and generally ride as near to the right side of roadway as practicable, with exceptions for turning, passing, and unsafe conditions.

Mandates motor vehicle operators maintain safe distance from bicycles, exercise due care when passing, and prohibit right turns immediately after passing a bicyclist unless safe; allows bicyclists to pass vehicles on the right at their own risk.

Requires bicycles to be equipped with front white lamp (visible 500 feet), rear red reflector (visible 50-300 feet), and rear red lamp (visible 500 feet) when used from dusk to dawn; requires functional brakes and hand signals for turns and stopping.

Makes it unlawful to harass, taunt, or throw objects at bicyclists; prohibits carrying packages that prevent one hand on handlebars, riding more than two abreast (except on exclusive paths), and attaching bicycles to vehicles; effective July 1, 2010.