Introduction to the Proposal
Highway speeds could increase under a bill that has started moving forward in the state Senate.
The Republican-controlled Senate Transportation Committee approved a wide-ranging measure (SB 462), filed by Sen. Nick DiCeglie, R-Indian Rocks Beach, that includes boosting the maximum speed on interstates and Florida’s Turnpike from 70 mph to 75 mph.
Details of the Proposal
The bill also would require the Department of Transportation to increase the maximum speed on four-lane divided highways in rural areas from 65 mph to 70 mph.
Other roads with 60 mph speed limits could be raised to 65 mph where deemed “safe and advisable.”
Historical Context
Then-Gov. Rick Scott in 2014 vetoed a similar proposal about speed limits, pointing to concerns raised by law-enforcement officers.
"Although the bill does not mandate higher speed limits, allowing for the possibility of faster driving on Florida’s roads and highways could ultimately and unacceptably increase the risk of serious accidents for Florida citizens and visitors,” Scott, now a U.S. senator, wrote in a veto message.
"I strongly respect the opinion of state and local law enforcement officers who have contacted me to warn about the possible serious negative consequences should this bill become law. While the evidence suggests that increased driving speeds are not the sole cause of traffic accidents, they clearly contribute to the increased severity of vehicle crash outcomes in the form of needless injuries and deaths."
Current Status of the Proposal
DiCeglie’s bill would need to clear two more committees before it could go to the full Senate.
Conclusion
The proposal to increase highway speeds in Florida is moving forward, with potential increases on interstates, the Turnpike, and rural highways. While the bill aims to improve traffic flow, concerns about safety and the potential for increased accidents remain. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it will be important to weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks.
FAQs
Q: What are the proposed speed limit changes?
A: The proposal includes increasing the maximum speed on interstates and Florida’s Turnpike from 70 mph to 75 mph, and raising the speed limit on four-lane divided highways in rural areas from 65 mph to 70 mph.
Q: Why was a similar proposal vetoed in 2014?
A: Then-Gov. Rick Scott vetoed the proposal due to concerns about the potential for increased accidents and injuries.
Q: What is the current status of the proposal?
A: The bill has been approved by the Senate Transportation Committee and needs to clear two more committees before it can go to the full Senate.
