6/9/10-Gov. Charlie Crist has signed into law a lengthy transportation bill that includes a provision to allow heavier trucks. A separate provision gives truckers a 400-pound weight exception for auxiliary power units.
Starting July 1, permitted heavy trucks are slated to be able to run 8,000 pounds heavier on non-interstate highways. The provision was added to the nearly 100-page bill at the end of the regular session.
The new rule allows tractor-trailers to weigh 88,000 pounds on designated routes. Loads on interstates would continue to be limited to 80,000 pounds.
Also included in the bill – HB1271 – is a provision allowing a weight allowance for auxiliary power units. The maximum gross vehicle, axle weight limits will be increased for large trucks equipped with idle reduction technology. Trucks equipped with APUs would be authorized to weigh up to an additional 400 pounds.

5/20/10-A bill awaiting action from Gov. Charlie Crist includes an incentive to reduce trucking idling.
HB1271 is a lengthy transportation bill with a provision tucked inside that would increase the maximum gross vehicle, axle weight limits for large trucks equipped with idle reduction technology. Trucks equipped with auxiliary power units would be authorized to weigh up to an additional 400 pounds.
Adopting the weight exemption would create greater uniformity between federal and state law, a legislative analysis of the bill reports. The change is important to trucks and “would assist regulatory officials by preventing enforcement ambiguities that could cause problems for drivers during inspections.”
For bill status, call 850-656-4371. In Florida, call 800-342-1827.

4/20/10-The House Economic Development and Community Affairs Policy Council unanimously approved a bill that includes an incentive to reduce truck idling.
HB1271 would increase the maximum gross vehicle, axle weight limits for large trucks equipped with idle reduction technology. Trucks equipped with auxiliary power units would be authorized to weigh up to an additional 400 pounds.
Adopting the weight exemption would create greater uniformity between federal and state law, a legislative analysis of the bill reports. The change is important to trucks and “would assist regulatory officials by preventing enforcement ambiguities that could cause problems for drivers during inspections.”
Another provision in the 111-page bill would boost the maximum weight allowed for trucks moving agricultural products, under certain circumstances. The Florida Department of Transportation or local authorities could issue permits allowing agricultural haulers on non-interstates a 10 percent increase in the weight limit on designated routes specified in the permit.
The bill has advanced through three House committees. It now awaits clearance for full consideration on the House floor. If approved there, the bill would move to the Senate.
For bill status, call 850-488-4371. In Florida, call 800-342-1827.