EXECUTIVE ORDER  73-10

HIGHWAY SPEED LIMIT REDUCTION

Several weeks ago, I announced a broad conservation program relative to the conservation of electrical energy by all state agencies. At that time, it was also apparent that additional measures would need to be taken if predictions concerning the availability of fuel oil and heating oil were borne out.

It is clear from information available, that the situation facing our state and its citizens is serious. In the months ahead, we will be facing substantial shortages of oil for domestic heating and transportation uses.

To avoid even more substantial shortages, it is imperative that conservation practices be immediately expanded. To that end, I am announcing that effective immediately, all state government-owned or leased vehicles are restricted to a maximum of 50 miles per hour, except vehicles on emergency runs or those used in law enforcement.

I am further requesting that the state Highway Commission reduce the speed limits throughout the state to 50 miles per hour to conform with pending federal legislation. I am hopeful that all local government agencies act immediately in taking similar action.

Hundreds of thousands of barrels of oil annually can be saved through this action and it is imperative that we begin now to make those savings.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Daniel J. Evans, Governor of the State of Washington, do by virtue of the power vested in me,

-declare that effective immediately, all state vehicles, except emergency and State Patrol vehicles, shall be driven at a maximum speed of 50 miles per hour.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set
my hand and caused the seal of the State of
Washington to be affixed at Olympia this
8th day of November A.D., Nineteen hundred and seventy-three.

Daniel J. Evans
Governor of Washington

BY THE GOVERNOR:



Secretary of State

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