Topeka ? State officials on Wednesday rejected a proposal to reduce the speed limit from 70 mph to 65 mph on Kansas highways.

The Kansas Energy Council voted 19-1 against the proposal, which was made by a subcommittee of the council as a way to decrease carbon dioxide emissions through reduced gas usage.

Bruce Snead, who was chairman of that subcommittee, was the lone vote in favor of the measure.

“The science behind it is solid,” he said, although adding, “I understand the public’s opposition to it.”

The proposal generated 138 comments from the public. It was opposed by a nearly 3 to 1 ratio.

The Energy Council also voted against recommendations that would have increased fines for speeding and enforcement of speed limits.