RALEIGH (AP) — The full House is hitting the gas on legislation creating the option to raise the speed limit on some North Carolina interstates and highways to 75 mph.
The chamber scheduled debate and a vote Wednesday on a Senate bill to increase the state’s current 70 mph maximum speed limit. The Department of Transportation could raise the limit to 75 on a road if it’s deemed safe and reasonable and traffic and engineering allow it.
Supporters of the change say motorists are already driving above 70 mph and should be allowed to do so on open roads without getting a ticket. Detractors warn higher speed limits will lead to more traffic collisions and casualties.
The bill would go to Gov. Pat McCrory’s desk if the House passes it without changes.