Committee introduces bill to require tarps on sand-and-gravel loads after members cite windshield damage

Representative Clay Handy introduced RS31908, a proposal to require tarps or other covering on trucks hauling sand, gravel and similar loose materials, saying increased traffic has left following motorists with “sandblasted” windshields and damaged glass.

The bill would tighten an earlier exemption that allowed loads kept six inches below sideboards to travel uncovered. Handy told the panel that modern heavy-haul configurations and fuller loading were increasing the amount of material leaving trucks and striking vehicles behind them. He said the trucking industry is promoting the measure but carving out exemptions for agencies that move material only short distances, including canal companies, irrigation districts and drainage districts. Hot asphalt mix would remain exempt because it “sticks together,” Handy said.

The proposal includes a civil penalty of $200, and Handy and other members discussed enforcement and where fine revenue would go. Representative Jeff Mitchell asked where fines would be deposited; Handy said the fine would go to the county where the violation occurred. Representative Harris and others raised concerns that requiring tarping could be costly for small contractors; Harris cited an approximate retail cost of about $1,000 for a tarping system. Harris also suggested the issue may reflect enforcement of existing laws more than a statutory gap.

Members also discussed practical enforcement and exemptions. Representative Shepherd asked whether the measure could be left to counties to adopt because conditions differ across jurisdictions; Handy replied that a county-by-county approach would be difficult and that differences might be better addressed by speed-zone distinctions rather than county lines. Representative Clow noted an emergency clause in the draft and asked about a training deadline for law enforcement; Handy said the training deadline appeared to set a target for when training would be complete so officers could begin enforcement.

The committee voted to introduce RS31908. On a roll call, recorded votes included: Representative Monks (Aye), Representative Crane (Aye), Representative Handy (Aye), Representative Hill (Aye), Representative Petzke (Aye), Representative Boyle (Aye), Representative Clow (Aye), Representative Mickelson (Aye), Representative Pohanka (Aye), Representative Gannon (Aye), Representative Green Morley (Aye) and the Chairman (Aye). Recorded no votes included Representative Mitchell, Representative Shepherd and Representative Harris. The motion carried and the bill was ordered printed for further consideration.