Iowa Lawmakers Consider Raising the Speed Limit to 60 MPH

If you're a Sammy Hagar fan, and you also 'can't drive 55', you might just be in luck. The Iowa legislature is considering raising the speed limit.

Could Iowa See a Speed Limit Increase?

CBS2 reports that the Iowa House has passed a proposal that would raise the speed limit on some Iowa roadways from 55 to 60 miles per hour. House speaker Pat Grassley stated that many Iowans have requested the increase, especially in rural parts of the state. He added that it might finally be the time to see a slight increase.

Which Iowa Roads Would See an Increase?

The increase in speed would only apply to two-lane state highways, and other roadways where a speed limit is not posted, according to CBS2. But some lawmakers warn that an increase in speed could mean more accidents and fatalities. CBS2 reports that State Representative Austin Baeth said that an increase from 55 to 60 miles per hour would mean approximately six more Iowans would die per year.

How Long Has the Speed Limit Been at 55 Miles Per Hour?

Iowa, and the rest of the nation, adopted the 55 miles per hour speed limit in January of 1974. The Emergency Highway Energy Conservation Act lowered the speed limit to help the U.S. conserve fuel. The law was officially repealed in 1995, allowing states to set their own speed limits.

CBS2 reports that the Iowa House bill passed 76-16 and now heads to the Senate for further discussion.