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House approves measure raising some speed limits despite safety concerns
Summary
Senate File 378, as amended, raises certain speed limits (examples cited from 55 to 60 mph); proponents say it aligns limits with road conditions, while opponents warned it could cause an estimated six additional traffic deaths statewide annually.
Representative Clay presented Senate File 378 to increase speed limits in specified cases; committee amendments adjusted penalty language and harmonized related provisions. "This is a good bill as amended," Representative Gossow said on the floor.
Representative Faith explained her opposition, arguing an increase would lead to more fatalities: "It is estimated that by this change here on our particular roads, by increasing the speed limit from 55 to 60, it's estimated that approximately 6 more Iowans per year will die in a car crash," she said, and stated that is why she would vote no. The House passed the amended bill (recorded vote: 76 ayes, 16 no, 8 absent).
