Transportation

SF 378 increases Iowa's default speed limit for all vehicular traffic from 55 mph to 60 mph on roads without specific posted limits. This affects all drivers traveling on most state highways and roads where no special speed zones (like school districts at 25 mph or interstates at 70 mph) apply. The bill also allows transportation agencies to temporarily use approved stickers on existing signs when updating speed limits, rather than replacing signs immediately. It does not change existing speed limits for specific areas (like school zones) or penalties for speeding violations.

SF 2426 requires commercial drivers in Iowa to demonstrate English language proficiency meeting federal standards (49 C.F.R. §391.11(b)(2)) to obtain or renew a commercial driver's license. The bill mandates a computer-based English proficiency exam administered by the Iowa Department of Transportation, with exemptions for those who previously passed the test. Drivers who fail to meet the requirement face a serious misdemeanor charge ($1,000 fine), while commercial motor carriers employing unproficient drivers risk fines up to $10,000 per violation. The law takes effect March 1, 2027, or upon implementation of a new state records system, whichever comes first.