Minnesota Senate Bill SF1217

Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/6/23

Caption

Trunk Highway 19 segment speed limit establishment in the city of Lonsdale

Impact

The passage of SF1217 would amend Minnesota Statutes, specifically section 169.14, to include this specific speed limit within the state transportation regulations. By establishing a designated speed limit, the bill seeks to standardize traffic flow within that segment and provide clearer guidance for drivers, thus aiming to reduce potential traffic accidents and improve overall roadway safety standards. The enforcement of this speed limit may also lead to improved compliance by drivers familiarizing themselves with local traffic laws.

Summary

Bill SF1217 aims to establish a specific speed limit on a segment of Trunk Highway 19 located in the city of Lonsdale. The legislation proposes to set the speed limit at 45 miles per hour for the portion of highway extending between 5th Avenue Northwest and the northern city limits. This targeted traffic regulation is intended to enhance safety for both local residents and travelers on the highway, recognizing the unique characteristics of the area that may warrant a lower speed.

Contention

While the primary intent behind SF1217 appears to be enhancing public safety, potential areas of contention may arise surrounding the need for such a specific regulation. Discussions could involve whether setting specific speed limits on state highways is unnecessarily rigid or whether local jurisdictions should have more flexibility to determine their traffic regulations. Moreover, residents might express differing opinions on how such regulations impact local traffic patterns and their own commuting experiences.