Committee weighs raising interstate speed to 80 mph and authorization for variable speed signs; debate includes fines overhaul

The Senate committee opened committee work on House Bill 12-98 and related amendments, including a proposal to set an 80 mph speed limit on interstates and language authorizing variable (dynamic) speed limit signs and a consolidated speeding‑fine table.

Representative Ben Koppelman, sponsor in the House, described two principal amendment themes: (1) authorization for the Department of Transportation to deploy variable speed limit signs and (2) a consolidated speeding fine schedule intended to simplify fines and eliminate local “doubling” of penalties. Koppelman said the variable signs would be a tool to improve interstate safety and that the amendment does not include funding for sign installation.

Matt Linneman, deputy director for engineering at the North Dakota Department of Transportation, said variable speed limits are a feature of “intelligent transportation systems” (ITS) that include digital message signs, roadway weather stations and pavement sensors. Linneman told the committee such systems are typically deployed first in high‑traffic corridors; DOT planners have conceptualized a pilot on I‑29 between Fargo and Grand Forks. He said…