Lawmaker: You could be driving on 70 mph highways in Wisconsin as soon as this summer

MADISON (AP) — Tourists could be legally driving 70 mph on some Wisconsin highways this summer.

The state Assembly on Wednesday passed the speed limit increase bill. Its chief sponsor, Rep. Paul Tittl, says the Department of Transportation expects to have new speed limit signs posted in time for the summer tourist season.

DOT officials have said they plan to raise the limit to 70 mph on freeway portions of the interstate system as well as portions of U.S. Highway 51, U.S. Highway 53 and U.S. Highway 141.

Under the bill, the speed limit can be raised to 70 mph only on four-lane roads that have entrance and exit ramps, not those that have at-grade access.

The measure awaits Governor Scott Walker's signature.