A proposal to raise speed limits on Florida highways is advancing in the state Senate. On March 19, the Senate Transportation Committee approved a transportation bill (SB 462) sponsored by Senator Nick DiCeglie, R-Indian Rocks Beach. This bill seeks to increase the maximum speed limit on interstates and Florida’s Turnpike from 70 mph to 75 mph.
Similar legislation was vetoed in 2014 by then-Governor Rick Scott, who cited safety concerns. He warned that higher speeds could lead to more severe accidents, stating that while speeding isn’t the sole cause of crashes, it contributes to more serious outcomes.
DiCeglie’s bill must clear two more committees before it can be voted on by the full Senate. Additionally, the legislation would raise speed limits on rural four-lane divided highways from 65 mph to 70 mph, and other roads currently set at 60 mph could be increased to 65 mph if deemed safe.
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