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Senate Bill Approved To Increase Speed Limits

TALLAHASSEE (CBSMiami/AP) — Florida drivers with a heavy foot might catch a break soon thanks to a newly approved bill.

The Senate Transportation Committee approved a bill Thursday that would allow the Florida Department of Transportation to raise speed limits five miles per hour.

The bill doesn't mandate an increase, but only gives the transportation department the ability to raise limits on a case-by-case basis on a particular roadway. The bill was approved 6-1.

Current maximums are 75 miles per hour on limited-access highways, 65 on four-lane highways outside urban areas and 60 on other roads the department manages.

The bill also grants the transportation department the authority to set minimum speed limits.

The bill could be considered by the full Legislature this spring. If passed, it would take effect July 1.

TM and © Copyright 2014 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2014 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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