Missouri Delays 75 MPH Speed Limit Increases Pending Safety Review

The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) will not implement speed limit increases on rural highways and interstate freeways despite a new law taking effect on August 28. Governor Mike Kehoe signed Senate Bill 1408 in July, which grants the agency authority to raise limits from 70 to 75 mph on eligible roadways.

MoDOT Director Ed Hassinger announced that no changes will occur until the department completes a comprehensive safety evaluation, expected by the end of the year. The review analyzes traffic and truck volumes, crash history, terrain, road design, and the speed limits of neighboring states to balance traffic efficiency with safety. MoDOT has specifically excluded Interstate 70 from potential increases while the Improve I-70 Program rebuild and expansion continues.

Hassinger urged drivers to continue obeying posted speed limits, particularly in work zones, noting that the law's effective date does not grant immediate permission to drive faster. He emphasized that the agency is taking careful consideration of each location to ensure that any changes do not come at the expense of a safe trip.