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Highway Patrols In 5 States Ramp Up For Sturgis Rally

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — Highway Patrol troopers in states bordering western South Dakota are giving extra attention to traffic flocking to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

Organizers are planning for up to a million people for the rally’s 75th anniversary next week.

In southwestern North Dakota, the patrol is dedicating up to 30 overtime hours to the cause, at a cost of about $2,000.

The Montana Highway Patrol says it’s paying “special attention” to traffic routes favored by rally-goers, but spokesman John Barnes didn’t comment on whether any overtime hours were involved.

In Nebraska, there are additional patrols on some highways but no dedicated overtime. Capt. Paul Hattan says Nebraska’s mandatory helmet law prompts many riders to bypass the state.

In Wyoming, the patrol has secured $125,000 in federal highway grant money for ramped-up enforcement.