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Washington State Proposes Speed Limiting Devices for Repeat Speeders
The Washington state legislature is considering a new bill aimed at enhancing road safety by mandating the use of speed limiting devices for drivers with a history of speeding. House Bill 1596 has been introduced amidst rising concerns over fatal traffic accidents attributed to excessive speed. The proposed legislation was discussed in the House Transportation Committee, highlighting the need for measures to curb reckless driving practices.
Supporters of the bill argue that the increasing number of fatal accidents on the roads necessitates immediate action. The bill would require certain drivers to install an “intelligent speed assistance device,” which employs GPS technology to ensure vehicles adhere to posted speed limits. Notably, the legislation allows for limited leniency, permitting drivers to exceed speed limits up to three times each month.
Drivers would be subjected to this device if they obtain a new restricted license as stipulated by the bill. This approach mirrors the existing use of ignition interlock devices, which are mandatory for individuals previously convicted of driving under the influence. The intention is to create a safety net for those with a history of dangerous driving behaviors.
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The legislative proposal also encompasses drivers who have had their licenses suspended due to racing or excessive speeding, defined as exceeding the posted limit by 20 miles per hour or more. Furthermore, a court may require certain offenders to utilize a speed limiting device as part of their legal consequences.
Democrat state Representative Mari Leavitt, the bill’s primary sponsor, expressed urgency regarding the safety crisis on the state’s roads. “We’re losing Washingtonians, and families are enduring tragic losses that are both preventable and unnecessary,” Leavitt noted. She emphasized that these incidents are not mere accidents but rather the result of deliberate choices that endanger others.
According to statistics from the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, a significant portion of fatal crashes in the state—approximately one in three—has involved a speeding driver. The commission has reported a concerning upward trend in both fatal accidents and those related to speeding since 2019.
During the committee hearing, Shelly Baldwin, representing the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, testified that over the past few years, there has been a staggering 200% increase in speeding tickets for offenses exceeding 50 miles per hour over the limit, indicating the growing severity of the issue.
However, not all lawmakers are in agreement with the proposed legislation. Republican state Representative Gloria Mendoza challenged the bill’s effectiveness, questioning how allowing repeat offenders to continue driving—albeit at a limited speed—would contribute to public safety. “We’re trying to help them get back their license by giving them this tool. So how is this helping save lives?” she inquired.
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In response, Leavitt defended the proposal, asserting that the primary objective is to allow individuals to drive lawfully while prioritizing safety. “Having them on the road in a safe manner is going to save lives because they’re driving anyway, and they’re driving fast. The speed limiters will ensure that they can’t,” she explained.
As of now, the bill has not yet been assigned a date for a vote out of committee, leaving the future of the legislation uncertain.
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