JEFFERSON CITY — Gov. Mike Kehoe has signed a bill that will allow the Missouri Highway Commission to raise the maximum speed limit on selected rural, four‑lane highways from 70 mph to 75 mph. The change becomes official Aug. 28, 2026.
Where the higher limit can apply
The law permits the commission to increase the posted limit by 5 mph on eligible stretches of Interstates 35, 44, 55 and 70. It does not authorize raising speed limits along urban stretches where posted limits already fall below 70 mph.
- Applies only to rural, four‑lane highway segments designated by the Missouri Highway Commission.
- Will not affect urban sections with lower posted limits.
- Effective date: Aug. 28, 2026.
How the bill changed before passage
The legislation originally included other, broader transportation provisions — including a repeal of the state’s vehicle safety inspection mandate — but those items were removed before the governor signed the measure. Lawmakers and the governor pared the bill down to the speed limit change after concerns the additional provisions could prompt a veto.
State officials say half of Missouri’s eight neighboring states already allow maximum limits of 75 mph in rural areas, while the other half maintain a top limit of 70 mph or lower. The signed law simply gives Missouri’s Highway Commission discretion to align some interstate segments with the higher standard.
What drivers should know
The change does not automatically increase posted speeds across the interstate system. Any increase requires action by the Missouri Highway Commission and new or revised signage on affected stretches. Drivers should watch for updated speed‑limit signs and be aware that enforcement remains tied to posted limits and local law enforcement policies.
| Interstates eligible | Maximum possible increase |
|---|---|
| I‑35, I‑44, I‑55, I‑70 | Up to +5 mph (to 75 mph) |
The narrower final version of the bill cleared the way for Gov. Kehoe to sign it without the controversy tied to repealing safety inspections. Officials at the Missouri Highway Commission will determine which stretches meet criteria for a higher posted limit and when signs will be changed.
This shift follows a regional patchwork of speed limits: some neighboring states already permit 75 mph on rural interstates, while others keep lower top speeds. For Missouri drivers, the change could shorten travel times on qualifying rural segments once the commission acts and signs are updated.
