May 25, 1999 - Due to unexpectedly long debate on an unrelated issue in Michigan, lawmakers in the House Transportation Committee were not able to consider and vote on HB 4377 at their May 20 meeting.  This development leaves the future of the legislation that would create uniform speed limits, in political limbo, as summer recess approaches.

The bill's sponsors are hopeful that the Transportation Committee will vote on the measure at their first meeting in June.  If not, further consideration of uniform speed limits could not occur before the fall.

In its current form, HB 4377 would authorize a test of truck speeds at 65 mph on 500 miles of interstate highways in Michigan.  The test would last for one year with the results going back to the legislature for further consideration.

Even though time is running out, Committee Chairman Rick Johnson could be persuaded to call for a vote if enough constituents  requested it.  Likewise, calls to others on the transportation committee, could be helpful.

In addition to truckers, lawmakers also need to hear from car drivers.  It is very important that voters in the state make the phone calls.

Contact the Transportation Committee

Rick Johnson, Chair   (102)
517-373-1747
rijohnson@house.state.mi.us

Members

LaMar Lemmons III   (2)
517-373-1983
llemmons@house.state.mi.us