1/13/04-S1399, a bill that would allow sheriffs to weigh, measure and inspect commercial vehicles, has died.
The bill sought to permit sheriff’s officers to require a truck driver to take his or her rig to a weigh station or other location to be weighed, but only if the officer has probable cause to think the rig is in violation of state weight limits.
Current state law relegates weighing and inspections to the State Police.
It was awaiting a vote before the full Senate when the session ended Jan. 12.
An identical bill – A1702 – met a similar fate in the House.

7/21/03-The Senate has passed amendments to S1399 that would allow sheriffs to weigh, measure and inspect commercial vehicles.
The current law relegates weighing and inspections to the State Police.
The bill, sponsored by Sen. John Girgenti, D-Hawthorne, allows sheriff’s officers to require a truckdriver to take his or her rig to a weigh station or other location to be weighed, but only if the officer has probable cause to think the rig is in violation of state weight limits.
In addition, only an officer certified by the state as a weighmaster can weigh the trucks, and only on scales approved by the State Superintendent of Weights and Measures.
However, the State Patrol would retain the right, to “establish and operate locations for the measurement and weighing of vehicles.”
In addition, the State Police would keep the sole authority to conduct random roadside weight checks.
It now heads to the full Senate for consideration. An identical bill – A1702 – is before the full Assembly.
For bill status, call (609) 292-4840. In New Jersey, call 1-800-792-8630.