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Committee records bill to raise axle and gross-weight limits for concrete trucks to align with neighboring states
Summary
A bill discussed in the Highways and Transportation Committee would increase maximum axle and gross weights for concrete trucks to match surrounding states; committee approved the measure by voice vote after brief questions about roadway impacts.
The committee considered a bill that would raise maximum axle and gross-weight limits for concrete trucks to reduce what sponsors described as a competitive disadvantage with neighboring states.
Sponsor-provided figures in committee discussion: single-axle maximum 22,000 pounds; tandem axle 48,000 pounds; third axle 57,000 pounds; gross weight for a three-axle truck raised from 60,000 pounds to 64,000 pounds; and gross weight for a four-axle truck raised from 66,000 pounds to 72,000 pounds. The sponsor said the changes would keep state businesses "in line with the states around us."
Sen. Blackwell asked whether the increased weights would cause more damage to asphalt and roadways. The sponsor replied, "Well, it won't help it," and emphasized the economic disadvantages of remaining below neighboring states' limits. No engineering study or pavement-impact analysis was presented during the hearing.
Outcome: committee moved the bill and approved it by voice vote; the chair said the bill would be recorded. The transcript does not list a roll-call tally or specify mitigation measures, bridge ratings, or pavement-funding adjustments that could accompany higher legal weights.
