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Senate urges Congress to let states set speed limits after extended debate
Summary
The Senate passed a resolution urging congressional repeal of the federal 55 mph requirement so states can set speed limits, with back-and-forth on safety, fuel use and enforcement; the chamber approved SCR 2 by roll call (24–0).
The Utah Senate approved a resolution urging Congress to repeal the federal 55 mile-per-hour speed limit requirement and restore state authority to set speed limits, passing SCR 2 on the floor after extended debate.
Sponsor Senator Carling said the resolution reflects transportation committee findings that, where speed limits were raised to 65 on interstates, accident and fatality rates fell because motorists travel at a more uniform speed. "Most of our roads are built for that," he said, adding that in many rural stretches a 55 mph limit is "absurd" given traffic patterns.
Senator Swan and others questioned the relationship between speed limits and fuel consumption, asking whether raising limits could increase gasoline usage. Senator Carling and supporters pointed to improved vehicle efficiency and committee testimony from highway patrol representatives indicating traffic safety improved in areas where limits were raised. Senator McAllister urged consistency in federal-state roles, noting past instances where states accepted federal environmental controls while now asking for more state flexibility on speed limits.
After discussion, the Senate considered SCR 2 under suspension of the rules and recorded a final roll call of 24 ayes, no nays, with the resolution passing and being referred to the House for further action.
