Speed Limit on Illinois Rural Interstates Increased to 70 MPH

Illinois drivers will soon be able to drive 70 mph on rural interstates under a bill signed into law by Governor Pat Quinn.

The Chicago Democrat had been mum on his decision-making, but in a statement Monday said the bill brings Illinois in line with dozens of other states who've raised limits.

Illinois State Police and the Illinois Department of Transportation secretary had opposed the measure, saying higher limits increase chances for accidents.

The law takes effect in January.

Republican state Sen. Jim Oberweis, a sponsor, says most drivers already go 70 mph or faster and raising the limit produces a more even traffic flow.

Nearly three dozen other states have raised their speed limits since federal limits ended in 1995.