Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HF160

Introduced
1/30/23  
Introduced
1/30/23  

Caption

A bill for an act increasing the speed limit on the interstate road system.

Impact

If enacted, HF160 could significantly alter existing traffic regulations, resulting in an increased speed limit for vehicles operating on interstate highways within Iowa's jurisdiction. This change is expected to improve travel times for interstate drivers, which can contribute to economic efficiencies in transportation. The bill addresses a common concern among drivers regarding the modern speed at which travel occurs, particularly on well-maintained interstate roadways that are designed for higher speeds.

Summary

House File 160, introduced by Representative Siegrist, proposes increasing the maximum speed limit on the interstate road system from 70 miles per hour to 75 miles per hour. The bill seeks to amend Section 321.285 of the Iowa Code, which currently stipulates that the speed limit on highways that are part of the interstate system is set at 70 mph. By modifying this limitation, the legislation aims to allow for faster travel on interstates, potentially affecting a wide range of motorists in Iowa.

Contention

Notably, there may be differing opinions on the appropriateness of increasing the speed limit. Proponents of the bill argue that the current limit is outdated and does not reflect drivers' capabilities or modern vehicle safety standards. Opponents, however, might raise concerns about potential increases in traffic accidents or fatalities associated with higher speed limits. Discussions surrounding the bill would likely encompass these arguments, weighing the benefits of expedited travel against the possible risks to public safety.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IA SF378

A bill for an act relating to speed limits, including the speed limit range for which certain excessive speed violations cannot be considered for certain purposes and the default speed limit for all vehicular traffic, and making penalties applicable. (Formerly SF 73.) Effective date: 07/01/2026

IA SF73

A bill for an act relating to the default speed limit for all vehicular traffic, and making penalties applicable.(See SF 378.)

IA HB1298

The amount of statutory fees, speed limitations on multilane highways, variable speed limits, alteration of maximum speed limits on state highways, speed zone reduction limitations, and city fines and penalties; to provide for a legislative management report; and to provide a penalty.

IA HF2023

A bill for an act relating to speed limits, including the speed limit in school districts and the penalty for speeding in excess of twenty miles per hour over the limit.(See HF 2496.)

IA SB338

Baltimore County - Speed Monitoring Systems - Interstate 695 and Interstate 83

IA HB1298

AN ACT to amend and reenact sections 39-06.1-06, 39-09-02, 39-09-04, and 39-09-07.1, and subsection 2 of section 40-05-06 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the amount of statutory fees, speed limitations on multilane highways, variable speed limits, alteration of maximum speed limits on state highways, speed zone reduction limitations, and city fines and penalties; to provide for a legislative management report; and to provide a penalty.

IA SB1408

Increases the maximum speed limit from 70 to 75 miles per hour on rural interstates and freeways

IA SB175

City of Cumberland - Speed Monitoring Systems - Tractor Trailers on Interstate 68

IA HB74

Speed limits; increase on state highways and interstate highways by five miles per hour.

IA HB436

Speed limits; increase on state highways and interstate highways by five miles per hour.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.