3/12/10-Gov. Bob McDonnell put his signature on a bill to increase the 65 mph speed limit to 70 mph for all vehicles on rural sections of interstates where engineers deem it safe. The change also applies to other multilane, divided, limited-access highways and high-occupancy vehicle lanes.
Previously SB537, the new law leaves it up to the Virginia Department of Transportation to decide where speeds can be increased on the nearly 1,300 miles of eligible roadway. Affected stretches could be cleared for 70 mph traffic as early as July 1.
The companion bill – HB856 – has also been signed into law.

2/25/10-The House voted 76-22 to approve a bill that would boost the speed limit on some highways throughout the state.
SB537 now moves to Gov. Bob McDonnell’s desk for his signature. The Senate already approved it.
The bill would increase the 65 mph speed limit to 70 mph for all vehicles on rural sections of interstates where engineers deemed it safe. The change would also apply to other multilane, divided, limited-access highways and high-occupancy vehicle lanes.
Currently, cars and trucks are allowed to travel 70 mph only on portions of Interstate 85 in southern Virginia.
For bill status, call 804-698-7410. In Virginia, call 888-892-6948.

2/2/10-The Senate voted 29-11 Tuesday, Feb. 2, to approve a bill that would boost the speed limit on some highways throughout the state. It now moves to the House.
Sponsored by Sen. Stephen Newman, R-Lynchburg, SB537 would increase the 65 mph speed limit to 70 mph for all vehicles on rural sections of interstates where engineers deemed it safe. The change would also apply to other multilane, divided, limited-access highways and high-occupancy vehicle lanes.
Currently, cars and trucks are allowed to travel 70 mph only on portions of Interstate 85 in southern Virginia.
For bill status, call 804-698-7410. In Virginia, call 888-892-6948.

1/22/10-The Senate Transportation Committee voted 10-4 Thursday, Jan. 21, to approve a bill that would boost the speed limit on some highways throughout the state.
Sponsored by Sen. Stephen Newman, R-Lynchburg, SB537 would increase the 65 mph speed limit to 70 mph for all vehicles on rural sections of interstates where engineers deemed it safe. It now awaits consideration on the Senate floor.
Currently, cars and trucks are allowed to travel 70 mph only on portions of Interstate 85 in southern Virginia.
For Senate bill status, call 804-698-7410. In Virginia, call 888-892-6948.
An identical House bill – HB856 – is in the House Transportation Committee.