A bill giving Wyoming county governments more flexibility in setting speed limits on unpaved roads has passed the Wyoming House of Representatives after three readings, Wyoming News Now reports.
The bill, Senate File 32 (SF 32), titled “Unpaved Roads Speed Limits-Amendments,” was amended in the House to better meet the needs of county engineers and road supervisors.
Rep. Rob Geringer, R-Cheyenne, explained that the amended version of SF 32 now allows counties to lower speed limits on unpaved roads from 55 mph to 45 mph without the need for a speed study, but not below 45 mph.
Originally introduced in the Senate, the bill would have allowed counties to set speed limits up to 55 mph without requiring a speed study. Under current law, counties can set speed limits, but a speed study is required to justify changes.
The amendment gives more control to county commissioners, who, in consultation with county engineers and law enforcement, can now set lower speed limits on unpaved roads to improve safety. However, the bill’s supporters note that lowering the speed limit below 45 mph could present challenges, especially when it comes to mixed commercial and residential traffic.
Rep. Geringer highlighted potential issues if truck traffic is required to travel at lower speeds, particularly in hilly areas where slower vehicles might need to be passed, increasing the risk of head-on collisions.
The bill also includes provisions that allow for temporary speed reductions below 45 mph while a speed study is being conducted.
With the House’s approval of the amended bill, SF 32 will now return to the Senate for a final concurrence vote on the changes made in the House.
