A proposed Wisconsin bill would require certain repeat reckless drivers to have a “speed assistance” or speed-limiting device installed in their vehicle. 

The bill targets drivers who have accumulated two or more reckless driving violations within a five-year period, where each violation involved operating a vehicle 20 mph or more over the posted speed limit.

The device would function via GPS to determine the posted speed limit and would gradually limit the vehicle’s speed accordingly. It would remain installed for one year, with the driver responsible for installation, servicing, and removal costs, estimating $1,700 a year.  

State Sen. Chris Larson, D-Milwaukee, supports the bill, and said the device is similar to ones implemented in the vehicles of drunk driving offenders. 

“This will force that person to change their behavior,” he said. (RELATED: The Milwaukee Hop Comes Under Fire After Accident Shuts It Down)

State Rep. Russell Goodwin, D-Milwaukee, said the proposal represents the “future” of preventing reckless drivers.

But others believe this bill is a distraction from a push by Milwaukee officials to change state law to allow traffic cameras in the city.

A spokesperson for Cavalier Johnson, mayor of Milwaukee, said the bill is “reactive” and state lawmakers should focus on preventing reckless driving by deploying more traffic cameras. 

“We want all drivers to be more conscious of their driving behavior, not just those who have multiple reckless driving convictions,” the spokesperson said. “When all drivers know they could be cited by camera, then all drivers will work to improve their driving.”

There were more than 6,500 speed related crashes in Wisconsin in 2024, and more than 37,000 citations were handed out for drivers going 20 mph or above the speed limit, according to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. (RELATED: Milwaukee Mayor Touts Lower Crime Rates As Homicide Continues to Increase)