Sponsored by Sen. Sheldon Killpack, R-Syracuse, the bill would raise the minimum mandatory insurance requirements an extra $5,000 to $15,000 for bodily injury and property damage liability.

The controversial measure was held in a House committee Monday after squeaking through the Senate last week on a tight 16-13 vote. A minimum of 15 votes are needed to pass the Senate.

"It's been 15 years since these limits have been addressed," Killpack said during Senate floor debate.

He estimated rates would increase an average of 4 to 10 percent, depending on how much risk the driver poses to the market.

According to the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America, close to one-third of Utah's drivers could expect to pay 10 percent more - or an extra $72 per year, placing Utah fifth in the nation in terms of auto insurance costs.

In a news release, the association's northwest Regional Manager Kenton Brine questioned the bill's logic, saying that no legitimate justification for the increase had been given.

"The average accident in Utah results in $2,700 in property damage and $11,000 in injuries," Brine said. "There is no good reason for the state to force people to carry $30,000 in coverage for an $11,000 accident."

Sen. Lyle Hillyard, R-Logan, voiced support for the bill during floor debate.

"Policy limits right now are just small amounts compared to the damage caused," Hillyard said. "You spend a couple of days in the hospital and you have severe injuries, you'll easily exceed $25,000."

Sen. Pat Jones, D-Salt Lake City, voted against SB149.

"I was concerned that young people in particular would find it onerous," she said Monday. "They're struggling already to pay for auto insurance."

Sen. Mark Madsen, R-Lehi, also opposed the measure.

"I'm inclined to avoid mandating additional burdens on citizens," Madsen said.

cmckitrick@sltrib.com