Kansas proposes speed limit hike, relaxing seatbelt law
KANSAS CITY — The Jayhawk State already has some of the most liberal speed limits in the union and it’s possible vehicles will now be able to travel even faster on select highways.
According to local media, the Kansas Legislature agreed to raise the speed limit to 75 mph (from 70 mph) on more than 1,000 miles of separated, multi-lane highways.
At the same time, the state will relax penalties for not wearing seatbelts. The same measure restricts cities from charging more than $10 for seatbelt violations — one of the lowest levels in the U.S.
The bill is headed to the governor’s office.
The proposal was introduced by Rep. Marvin Kleeb (R-Overland Park). He said the change would enhance economic development because highways would become more attractive to shippers.
Most of the roads where the speed limit might rise will likely be in rural areas.
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