WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 113

Including operating a motor vehicle at a speed of 35 miles per hour over the posted speed limit under the crime of reckless driving.

2025-2026 Regular Session

Kansas bill makes driving 100+ mph or 35+ mph over speed limits automatic reckless driving crimes, converting speeding infractions into criminal offenses with severe penalties.

Died on Calendar
#motorvehicles #trafficregulations
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 113

Legislative bill overview

SB 113 expands Kansas's definition of reckless driving to automatically include two specific behaviors: operating a motor vehicle at 100+ mph or driving 35+ mph over the posted speed limit. Currently, reckless driving requires proof of willful or wanton disregard for safety; this bill creates a strict liability standard for these speed thresholds.

Why is this important

Reckless driving carries serious criminal consequences including jail time, license suspension, and a permanent criminal record. This bill converts high-speed behaviors into automatic crimes regardless of road conditions or circumstances, significantly raising penalties for speeding violations that were previously handled as traffic infractions in most cases.

Potential points of contention

  • Strict liability concerns: Removes the requirement to prove reckless intent, meaning a driver could face felony charges even in empty parking lots or low-risk situations at those speeds
  • Disproportionate penalties: Converts civil traffic violations into criminal offenses with vastly harsher consequences, raising proportionality questions
  • Enforcement disparities: May result in inconsistent application across jurisdictions and demographic groups, as speeding enforcement patterns vary significantly
  • Interstate commerce impact: The 100+ mph threshold may disproportionately affect commercial truck drivers on interstate highways

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.