Simply driving more slowly is the centerpiece of an American Trucking Association plan it says will save enormous amounts of fuel and reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
But while ATA suggests a national speed limit of 65 mph, there is nothing to stop the industry, individual motorists and other businesses from doing this on their own. Nor are states prevented from lowering speed limits.
Since Congress repealed the national law 13 years ago, 32 states have posted speed limits of 70 mph or more on some roads. Pennsylvania's top limit is 65 mph. ATA says a 65-mph national limit for all vehicles would save 86 billion gallons of fuel and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 900 million tons over 10 years. Its proposals also include reducing engine idling, increasing fuel taxes to make congestion improvements on highways, and national fuel economy standards for trucks.
Some or all of these may hold merit, but they aren't necessarily politically palatable. So, it's no surprise that ATA has found no federal lawmaker to champion its cause.
Who needs Congress, who likely will only fiddle while fuel burns? Slowing down has been cited by automotive experts as a great way to reduce consumption. Moreover, governors and state legislators have it in their power to reduce speed limits.
For those wanting more individual choice and states rights, this is a golden opportunity.
