Rep. Goodwin, Sen. Larson introduce novel legislation to address reckless driving epidemic

MILWAUKEE – Today, Senator Chris Larson and Representative Russell Goodwin announced the release of legislation to curb reckless driving and speeding with the use of Speed Assistance (ISA) devices, also known as speed limiters. Joining them were advocacy groups, Mothers Against Drunk Driving and Families for Safer Streets.

“Speeding and reckless driving behavior have increased throughout our Wisconsin communities. With over 6,500 speed-related crashes reported in 2024, we must act now to curb the behavior of these reckless drivers to protect our neighbors and communities.

“Similar to current technology used to prevent drunk driving instances (ignition interlock devices), speed limiters target offender behavior by restricting the ability to exceed posted speed limits while driving. The device uses GPS to determine the posted speed limit, and in instances where the speed limit changes (for example, changes from 50MPH to 35MPH), speed limiters safely and gradually coast down to the required speed limit. Likewise, in instances where the vehicle needs to transition to a faster speed limit (as highway on-ramps require), a few-second-long override period can be pre-programmed to enable the vehicle to temporarily exceed the speed limit.

“This approach uses technology to curb speeding and reckless driving and would be used as a behavior modifier for those who have been cited for reckless driving or speeding over 20 MPH twice within five years. Just like ignition interlock devices mandated for most drunk driving offenses, the speed limiter would be installed on offender vehicles for one year at no cost to the taxpayer. Instead, the financial cost would be the obligation of the offender.

“Implementation of this technology will equip Wisconsin with one more tool to provide accountability for those who habitually disregard the safety and welfare of themselves and others while driving.”

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.