OOIDA Call to Action – Iowa members
March 4, 2010

A group of big shippers is hard at work trying to convince state lawmakers to boost permissible truck weights to 96,000 pounds on non-interstate highways in the state.

Iowa law already permits up to 96,000-pound loads for trucks hauling livestock or some construction loads, such as rock or soil.

HF2512 would open the door to all commodities transported on six- and seven-axle vehicles to gross as much as 96,000 pounds. Loads on interstate highways would continue to be limited to 80,000 pounds.

Lawmakers should know that their trucker constituents are none too keen on heavier weight limits. Problems that would result include premature highway deterioration, increased maintenance costs and safety concerns.

There is a harsh reality awaiting lawmakers and highway users if this bill makes its way through the statehouse. It won’t be too long before affected trucks would end up running through school zones and other places that motorists absolutely do not want to see the state’s heaviest trucks.

Supporters of heavier trucks have already got the ear of many lawmakers on HF2512. Contact your elected state representative NOW to make sure they hear both sides on this issue. You can also call the OOIDA Membership Department at 800-444-5791 and they will look up the contact information for you.