3/21/07-Gov. Mike Beebe has signed a bill into law that could result in all traffic traveling 10 mph faster along some highways in Arkansas.
The new law, previously HB1342, directs the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department to study two-lane and four-lane highways where the speed limit is 55 mph to determine if the maximum speed could safely be increased to 65 mph.
The department is required to complete the report and present its findings to lawmakers by fall 2008.

3/7/07-The Senate Transportation, Technology and Legislative Affairs Committee approved a bill that would direct the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department to study two-lane and four-lane highways where the speed limit is 55 mph to determine if the maximum speed could safely be increased to 65 mph. The House already approved it.
Sponsored by Rep. Scott Sullivan, D-De Queen, HB1342 would require the department to complete the report and present its findings to lawmakers by fall 2008.
The Highway Department already has authority to change speed limits on state highways. This bill simply urges the department to do the study.
It has been forwarded to the Senate floor for further consideration. For bill status, call (501) 682-7771.

2/27/07-The House voted 95-1 to approve a bill that would direct the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department to study two-lane and four-lane highways where the speed limit is 55 mph to determine if the maximum speed could safely be increased to 65 mph. It has advanced to the Senate.
Sponsored by Rep. Scott Sullivan, D-De Queen, HB1342 would require the department to complete the report and present its findings to lawmakers by fall 2008.
The Highway Department already has authority to change speed limits on state highways. This bill simply urges the department to do the study.
HB1342 has been forwarded to the Senate Transportation, Technology and Legislative Affairs Committee. For bill status, call (501) 682-7771.