Setting the stage for Senate vote, Transportation Committee approves 70 mph speed limit bill

MADISON (AP) — The Wisconsin Senate's Transportation Committee has approved a bill that would clear the way for a 70 mph speed limit.

Under the bill, the state Department of Transportation would decide where to raise the limit from 65 mph to 70 mph. Republicans amended the measure this week to prohibit the agency from raising the limit on four-lane roads with at-grade access.

The committee approved the proposal unanimously Thursday, April 30th -- setting the stage for a Senate vote. If the bill passes that house it would go to the Assembly.

That chamber passed the bill in March but legislators have since added the at-grade prohibition. Both houses must pass an identical bill before it can go to Governor Scott Walker for his signature.