BOISE, Idaho This state has a new law intended to ease concerns of bus operators and others about towns lowering speed limits so they can catch speeders to generate revenue.

The law takes effect July 1.

Currently, Idaho law authorizes local governments to set speed limits on state highways that run through city limits. The local power can result in posted speeds that are measurably lower than outside the town boundaries.

Gov. Butch Otter signed into law a bill to strip the authority from communities.

Instead, the power to set speed limits on highways will soon revert to the Idaho Transportation Department.

Supporters said the change will help eliminate speed traps near small towns. Communities around the state that have reputations for extended slow zones along highways include Bellevue, Donnelly and New Meadows.

Critics doubted the state can assess speed settings in communities as well as local government.

Wyoming speeds up passing

CHEYENNE, Wyo. Coach drivers touring through Wyoming may see an increase in the number of motorists who zip past them on highways.

Gov. Matt Mead signed a measure that allows passenger vehicles, motorcycles and pickups to hammer down while passing other vehicles. It takes effect July 1.

The law permits motorists to surpass the speed limit by as much as 10 mph to overtake vehicles traveling below the posted speed on two-lane roads. The leeway will apply only to roads with speed limits of at least 50 mph.

Passing vehicles are required to return to the right lane and slow to the posted limit as soon as possible. Construction zones are not included.

Supporters said it is a safety hazard for vehicles to get caught behind a slow-moving vehicle. They said the rule change will help to keep traffic flowing.