A controversial bill limiting Salt Lake City's ability to add traffic-calming measures on major roads without state approval has passed a hurdle in the House Transportation Committee. The bill would make it harder for city leaders to design streets that prioritise pedestrians and cyclists over dedicated bus or bike lanes. Critics argue the measure is part of a broader effort to assert greater state control over Utah's left-leaning capital. It would require Salt Lake city to partner with the Utah Department of Transportation by 2027 and require highway reduction strategies on some of the city's most heavily traveled roads to require studies, outreach and state approval for changes to other busy corridors. The legislation now goes back to the House floor for a vote.