Missouri Bill could raise speed limit on rural interstates and freeways
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- Missouri lawmakers are considering legislation that could raise speed limits on rural freeways and interstates across the state.
Republican Sen. Jamie Burger, who represents Missouri’s 27th District, introduced Senate Bill 1408 on Wednesday at the start of the legislative session.
The bill states, "Currently, the maximum speed limit on rural interstates and freeways of this state is seventy miles per hour. This act increases the maximum speed limit on such roads to seventy-five miles per hour."
According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, approximately one-third of fatal crashes in Missouri involve excessive speed, more than both impairment and distraction.
A spokesperson from MoDOT stated that the speed limit should not be raised due to safety concerns.
"From a safety perspective, if speed limits are raised to 75 mph, the state should expect to see an associated increase in fatalities and serious injuries," said Taylor Brune, MoDOT communications director, in an email statement.
Data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety shows that a 5-mph increase in the maximum speed limit is associated with an 8.5% increase in fatality rates on interstates and freeways.
MSHP Sgt. Shane Hux said, so far, with no increase, Missouri has seen a 37% increase in fatality crashes in the first week of the year, compared to last year.
Some Missouri drivers don't agree with the proposed bill. St. Joseph resident Teresa Bowman said the speed limit should stay at 70 mph.
"I think requesting to raise five miles per hour more is really not necessary because they are probably going over that amount as we speak, so just leave it at 70," she said.
St. Joseph resident Jarrett Hargrave said it should be fine as long as everyone is being safe.
“As long as everyone is driving safe it should be fine. I know people for a general statement drive usually five over anyway," he said.
If the bill passes, speed limits could rise in August of 2026.
