Speeding is one of the leading causes of fatal crashes in Washington State. For many residents, these tragedies hit too close to home. In response to public demand and a growing number of heartbreaking incidents, Governor Bob Ferguson has introduced the BEAM Law—a powerful move aimed at stopping repeat speed offenders by using technology that takes control before drivers can lose it.
BEAM
The BEAM Law, officially taking effect in January 2029, targets reckless drivers by requiring them to install a GPS-enabled device in their vehicles. This device uses intelligent speed assistance to ensure that the car cannot exceed posted speed limits. The system identifies the road the car is on and automatically adjusts the vehicle’s maximum speed. Push the pedal all you want—your car won’t go faster than the law allows.
For many, this legislation isn’t just policy—it’s personal.
Tragedy
In 2024, the state was shaken by a devastating crash in King County that left four young lives lost. Chase Jones, the driver, was speeding recklessly when he caused the deaths of 12-year-olds Boyd Buster Brown and Eloise Wilcoxson, and 13-year-olds Andrea Smith Hudson and Matilda Wilcoxson. The case sparked outrage and grief across Washington and beyond.
Although Jones was sentenced to 17 years in prison, the victims’ families continued to push for change. They wanted something that could actually prevent the next tragedy—not just punish the last one. Their stories and relentless advocacy laid the groundwork for what would become the BEAM Law.
Device
So, how does this device actually work? It’s not just GPS—it’s smart. With intelligent speed assistance, the technology:
- Detects the exact road the vehicle is traveling on
- Reads the current speed limit for that road
- Caps the vehicle’s maximum speed accordingly
Even if a driver tries to speed, the car won’t allow it. Think of it as a digital speed nanny—firm but fair.
Mari Leavitt, a state representative and the law’s key investor, put it plainly: “If I’m in a 25 mph zone and try to go 35, I literally can’t. I can push the pedal all I want—it won’t move faster.”
Enforcement
The BEAM Law isn’t just about installing a gadget and calling it a day. It comes with teeth. If someone tampers with the device, they’ll face harsher penalties. The law is built on the idea that safety can no longer be optional—not when lives are at stake.
It also emphasizes prevention over punishment. Instead of waiting for another tragedy, this tech-led law puts safety first, making it physically impossible to speed in restricted areas like school zones or residential neighborhoods.
Support
Public reaction to the BEAM Law has been largely positive. After so many lives have been lost due to reckless driving, many Washingtonians see this law as a necessary step forward. From parents to policymakers, the message is clear: it’s time for change.
The 1956 House bill behind this law reflects citizen input in every line. Representative Leavitt said it best: “It is the family members who have brought us to today. They are the ones who were willing to share their story time and time again.”
BEAM Law Overview
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Enforcement Start Date | January 2029 |
| Applies To | Drivers with prior speeding/reckless driving violations |
| Technology Used | GPS with Intelligent Speed Assistance |
| Speed Limiting Function | Caps car’s speed to match posted limits |
| Penalty for Tampering | Harsher consequences for altering or disabling the device |
This isn’t just another law. It’s a turning point. It’s a promise to the families who lost someone too soon—and a warning to those who think they can keep pushing limits on the road. The BEAM Law brings accountability, compassion, and technology together to make Washington’s roads safer for everyone.
FAQs
What is the BEAM Law?
It requires GPS devices to limit speed for repeat traffic offenders.
When does the BEAM Law take effect?
It will start in January 2029 in Washington State.
How does the device prevent speeding?
It uses GPS to cap speed based on the current road’s limit.
What happens if you tamper with the device?
Tampering leads to harsher legal penalties.
Who inspired the BEAM Law?
Families of crash victims pushed for the law’s creation.
