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The North Dakota Senate has narrowly approved House Bill 1298 in a 25-21 vote, which would increase the state’s interstate speed limit from 75 to 80 mph for the first time in over two decades. The Senate version also overhauls the state’s speeding fine structure, replacing the current tiered system with a straightforward $5 fine for every mph over the limit. Additionally, the bill increases point penalties for various driving infractions including following too closely and using phones while driving. If signed by Governor Kelly Armstrong, North Dakota’s interstate speed limit would match Montana and South Dakota, while exceeding Minnesota’s 70 mph limit. The bill faces additional legislative hurdles as the House must now either accept the Senate’s changes or negotiate a compromise in conference committee. Some lawmakers expressed concern that the fine structure changes went beyond the bill’s original intent, while others worried higher speeds could impact public safety.
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