Committee advances bill setting default 35 mph limit on dirt and gravel roads with signage amendment

House Transportation Committee leaders reported House Bill 2274 to the full House after adopting an amendment that clarifies signage requirements for dirt and gravel roads.

The chair called up House Bill 2274, introduced by Representative Christina Sappy, and staffer Kyle explained that the bill would set a default speed limit of 35 miles per hour on dirt and gravel roads across the Commonwealth. Kyle said current practice often leaves unposted rural roads at a default of 55 mph.

Representative Christina Sappy, the bill's prime sponsor, spoke in support of the amended measure. "This is, you know, very straightforward as amended and will increase safety, not only for drivers, but for property and others, livestock and human beings on either side of the road," she said.

The committee considered Amendment A02879, which Kyle summarized as clarifying signage requirements for posting speed limits on dirt and gravel roads. A committee member noted that without clear signs drivers could be confused about the applicable speed, and emphasized that dirt and gravel corridors are used by bikers, hikers and off‑road vehicles. "I think putting these at the front and the end of these roadways is probably smart," the committee member said.

There were no negative votes on Amendment A02879; the amendment was adopted. There were also no negative votes recorded on House Bill 2274 as amended, and the committee reported the bill as committed.

The committee did not set an implementation timetable during the meeting; next steps are for the bill to be scheduled for further consideration by the House. The meeting adjourned without additional votes on related measures.