4/24/06-Gov. Jim Doyle signed a bill to expand the range that trucks can operate in the state without a permit. The measure expanding truck access takes effect Aug. 1.
Existing state law prohibits any combination of two vehicles with an overall length more than 65 feet from running on a highway, unless the operator has special permits.
The new law, previously AB315, will permit greater access for vehicle combinations up to 75 feet in overall length, and with a trailer up to 53 feet, with a kingpin-to-axle setting up to 43 feet.
Such combinations will be permitted to operate on all state trunk highways, including interstate highways, except for those roads identified by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation as “not suitable to accommodate such vehicle lengths.”
Access to and from such highways also will be extended from five to 15 miles to access highways designated by the department or to reach certain services or destinations. Existing rules limit the distance to five miles.

2/22/06-The Senate has approved a bill that would expand the range that trucks can operate in the state.
Existing state law prohibits any combination of two vehicles with an overall length more than 65 feet from running on a highway, unless permitted.
AB315, sponsored by Assemblyman Jerry Petrowski, R-Marathon, would permit greater access for vehicle combinations up to 75 feet in overall length, and with a trailer up to 53 feet, with a kingpin setting up to 43 feet.
Such combinations would be permitted to operate on all state trunk highways, including interstate highways, except those identified by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation as “not suitable to accommodate such vehicle lengths.”
Access to and from such highways also would be extended from five to 15 miles to access highways designated by the department or to reach certain services or destinations. Existing rules limit the distance to five miles.
The bill also would require the department to submit implementing rules within two months of becoming law.
The measure, which previously passed the Assembly, now heads to Gov. Jim Doyle for his signature.
For bill status, call (608) 266-2406. In Wisconsin, call 1-800-362-9472.