New Mexico Truck Speed Limit: Controversial Bill Advances

New Mexico Lawmakers Push to Lower Truck Speed Limit

A bill moving through the New Mexico Senate could lower the speed limit for commercial trucks. Senate Bill 226 (SB 226), introduced by Sen. George Muñoz (D-Gallup), would set a maximum of 65 mph as the commercial truck speed limit. Meanwhile, the speed limit for cars and other vehicles would remain at 75 mph.

Proposed Changes to the Truck Speed Limit

Right now, New Mexico has the same speed limit for all vehicles on major highways. Trucks are already required to stay in the right-hand lane on multi-lane highways outside of city limits. They can only move left when overtaking another vehicle.

If passed, SB 226 would reduce the maximum speed for trucks to 65 mph. Lawmakers pushing the bill say this change is needed to address congestion and safety concerns. Under the proposal, truck drivers who exceed 65 mph would face a $250 fine.

During a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, Muñoz described the frustration many drivers experience on Interstate 40. “If you ever drive I-40, you will enjoy the semi-truck traffic that tries to pass one another going up a hill at 55 mph,” Muñoz said. “Traffic lines up for 10 miles. It’s a real safety factor.”

Muñoz believes lowering truck speeds will help improve traffic flow. However, some lawmakers disagree.

Concerns About Speed Differences

Not everyone supports SB 226. Some believe the bill could create new dangers.

Sen. Joshua Sanchez (R-Bosque) pointed out that many large trucking companies already limit their truck speeds. “The issue is with the big corporate trucks that are governed at like 62, 65. Independent truckers run 75. (Big corporate trucks) are the guys who clog it up. It is a mess,” Sanchez said.

Muñoz pushed back against this argument. “They will get caught speeding. That’s how you solve it,” he responded.

A report from the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) warns that SB 226 could cause more accidents. “This legislation could potentially result in at least a 10-mph speed limit differential between truck tractors and other vehicles on interstates,” the report states. It adds that speed differences between vehicles can lead to more crashes and increased congestion.

Truckers’ groups also oppose speed limits that are different for cars and trucks. The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) argues that “a speed differential decreases safety by increasing the interaction between large trucks and passenger vehicles.” They say there is no strong evidence that lowering truck speeds will improve safety.

New Mexico’s Existing Trucking Rules

This is not the first time New Mexico has passed laws aimed at large trucks.

In 2023, a law went into effect requiring trucks to stay in the right lane on multi-lane highways outside city limits. Exceptions exist for passing other vehicles. Violators face a $250 fine.

Muñoz supported that law as well. He said the change was needed to keep traffic moving safely. “You get on I-40, and you’re going along at 75 mph, and a semi pulls out at 65 and tries to pass the other semi at 67, and traffic backs up for 10 miles,” Muñoz testified. “Frustration levels with people are getting ridiculous.”

Despite the lane restriction, Muñoz says problems still exist. He believes lowering truck speeds will help.

What Happens Next?

SB 226 has already passed two Senate committees. Both the Transportation Committee and the Senate Judiciary Committee gave the bill a “Do Pass” recommendation.

If the bill is approved by the full Senate and House, the lower truck speed limit would take effect on July 1, 2025.

Supporters argue the bill will make roads safer and ease congestion. But truckers and some lawmakers worry that the speed limit difference will cause more problems.