Michigan Lawmakers May Raise Speed Limits On Rural Highways

LANSING (AP) - Speed limits could increase on some rural highways and expressways under legislation approved by a Michigan legislative committee.

Legislation moved from committee to the House floor Tuesday would allow about 600 miles of rural highway to go from 70 to 75 mph as soon as next year.

Rep. Bradford Jacobsen, a Republican from Oxford, says about 900 miles of roadway could jump from 55 to 60 mph, while speed limits on some sections of expressways could climb to 80 mph.

Only certain freeways could jump to 80, such as a section of Interstate 75 north of Bay City, or certain parts of I-69 between Flint and Lansing.

Jacobsen says part of U.S. 127 north of St. John's might also be eligible.