SALEM -- Cyclists would be able to ride -- slowly -- through stop signs with impunity under a bill up for discussion Wednesday at the Legislature.

And you're scratching your head wondering when was the last time you saw one actually stop.

The proposal, which is certain to boil some serious blood among the car drivers, comes courtesy of Rep. Jules Bailey, a Democratic newbie from Southeast Portland who rides his bike to work when he's not passing laws in Salem.

"My intent is not to allow cyclists to blow through stop signs," Bailey said. Just roll -- cautiously, safely and preferably on side streets.

Also supporting the measure are Sens. Jason Atkinson, R-Central Point, and Floyd Prozanski, D-Eugene, both serious cyclists. The bill would allow bike riders to cross or turn at an intersection controlled by a stop sign without stopping as long as they slow to a "safe speed."

The bill "recognizes that bikes operate fundamentally differently" from cars, Bailey said. That is, they can see if cars and coming and stop quickly as needed. Also, frequent stopping and starting slows the momentum that makes for a smooth commute on the city's less-traveled back streets, he says.

Mary Wheat, spokeswoman for the Portland Police Bureau, sounded a tad incredulous when she first heard about the proposed law change from a reporter.

"That would most likely be unsafe for bicyclists, pedestrians and motor vehicles," Wheat said. "There's a reason why those traffic control devices were put in place. We need everyone to obey those laws."

It's the second time this year the Legislature has aroused the bike-vs.-car debate. Earlier this month, Rep. Wayne Krieger, R-Gold Beach, offered up a bill to charge a $54 registration fee for bikes. After some gnashing of gears -- and teeth -- by Portland's robust cycling community, the air appears to have leaked out of that proposal.

The Legislature also is looking at increasing the amount of transportation dollars set aside for bicycle and pedestrian facilities, from 1 percent to 2 percent.

-- Harry Esteve; harryesteve@news.oregonian.com