New speed limit bill in fast lane

COLUMBUS. Ohio (WDTN) - Ohio motorists may soon be able to put the pedal to the metal.

By a 27-6 vote, the proposal to boost speed limits to 70 mph on rural interstate highways cleared the Ohio Senate Wednesday, March 20 and is in the fast lane to the house Thursday, March 21.

Under the measure, Ohio's transportation department would set the maximum speed limit for interstate freeway outer-belts in urban areas, at 65 mph and on freeways in congested areas at 55 mph.

The bill also sets in motion Gov. John Kasich's plan for a $1.5 billion Ohio Turnpike bond sale that would raise money for highway and bridge projects.

A compromise provision guarantees that 90 percent of the turnpike bond sale would go to northern Ohio projects.

The measure now heads to the Ohio House where it is expected to pass.

Raising the speed limit would bring the state in line with all but 16 other states that limit non-truck drivers in rural areas to 65 mph or less.

Most states with higher limits allow non-truck drivers to go 70 mph or 75 mph, according to Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.