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House Transportation committee backs bills to speed removal of hazards and ease crane transport rules
Summary
The House Transportation Committee approved HB1188 (liability and removal of disabled vehicles and boats) as amended and HB1189 (raised tire‑width weight limit for certain mobile cranes) with due‑pass recommendations; proponents said both bills improve public safety and operational efficiency for responders and service providers.
The House Transportation Committee on Feb. 2 advanced two bills aimed at improving rapid response, safety and clarity for roadside and waterway obstructions.
HB1188, as amended (11‑88a), clarifies responsibilities for law enforcement, Department of Transportation and contracted removal services when disabled vehicles or vessels create traffic hazards. The amendment replaces mandatory language with discretionary language in two lines and codifies immunity for good‑faith removal actions while preserving accountability for gross negligence or willful misconduct. Representatives of the South Dakota Sheriffs Association and towing companies told the committee quick clearance and guaranteed payment for contracted removals are essential for responder safety.
HB1189 (amended) raises the allowable pounds‑per‑inch tire load from 600 to 650 for a defined class of mobile cranes moving with the boom carried forward, provided they travel under an oversized permit and operate within existing axle‑combination limits. Industry witnesses and contractors said moving cranes without a boom dolly improves stability in many configurations, reduces bridge and pavement stress in practice, and eases mobilization while DOT retains route and timing oversight via permits.
Both bills received proponent testimony from sheriffs, towing operators and construction contractors. The committee issued a due‑pass recommendation for each and certified both for consent for floor consideration.
Quote: "Quick clearance is the most critical mission," said Andy Wicks of Performance Towing, representing towing interests.
