A bill that could raise speed limits on Florida’s highways and interstates is moving forward in the state Senate, with the Republican-controlled Senate Transportation Committee approving the measure on Wednesday.
The bill, SB 462, sponsored by Sen. Nick DiCeglie (R-Indian Rocks Beach), proposes increasing maximum speed limits across various roadways.
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If passed, the bill would raise the speed limit on interstates and Florida’s Turnpike from 70 mph to 75 mph. It would also increase speed limits on four-lane divided highways in rural areas from 65 mph to 70 mph and allow for a bump from 60 mph to 65 mph on other roads where transportation officials determine it is “safe and advisable.”
The proposal mirrors a 2014 effort that was ultimately vetoed by then-Gov. Rick Scott, who cited safety concerns raised by law enforcement. In his veto message at the time, Scott, now a U.S. senator, warned that increasing speed limits could lead to more severe crashes.
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“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,” Scott wrote.
Supporters of SB 462 argue that modern highways are designed for higher speeds and that raising limits would improve traffic flow. However, critics worry about potential safety risks, pointing to data showing that higher speeds can lead to more severe accidents.
The bill still needs to pass through two more Senate committees before it can reach the full Senate for a vote. If it advances, it could reignite debates over safety versus efficiency on Florida’s roadways.
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