Senate Votes on Traffic Safety Issues
The Senate opened the door for states to boost the speed limit on many roadways in non-rural areas. A bill which would eliminate the federal speed limit for cars was passed 65-35. In a very close vote the limits for trucks and buses--55 on non-rural highways and 65 mph on rural roads--were maintained. One safety advocacy group cited a DOT estimate that a speed limit repeal would produce an additional 4,750 deaths annually. Advocates for state control of the speed limits countered that not all states will jump to raise limits on all roads, but will instead cater to the needs of particular roads' motorists. In New Jersey, pressure is building to follow the lead of New York, Pennsylvania and Maryland, despite the fact that Governor Whitman and state police head Carl Williams oppose raising the limit to 65 mph. The Star-Ledger reported last week that former transportation commissioners had written a letter of support; while current NJDOT Commissioner Frank Wilson said the issue was under serious review. Assemblyman Gary Stuhltrager, chair of the Judiciary, Law and Public Safety Committee, where the bill has been stalled, said he still opposes the idea, but may review it due to present circumstances.Other traffic related safety items before the Senate: the seat belt law was not amended; penalties levied on states without motorcycle helmet requirements were eliminated; and an amendment to force states to toughen punishment of minors caught driving intoxicated was approved. Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Star-Ledger
