The bill amends Section 32-9-20 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to modernize vehicle weight regulations and clarify terminology. Key changes include replacing the term "person" with "individual" and refining the definition of "axle load" to specify the total load transmitted to the road by all wheels within a defined distance. New provisions establish axle weight limits, prohibiting vehicles from exceeding 20,000 pounds on any one axle, and outline specific weight limits for tandem axles and overall gross weight based on axle spacing. The previous prohibition on vehicles exceeding certain weight thresholds on the Interstate Highway System has been deleted, with the new provisions aiming to enhance clarity for enforcement and compliance.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new formula for calculating maximum gross weight on groups of consecutive axles and requires special permits for vehicles exceeding the stated weight limits. It replaces outdated weight calculation formulas with a new definition of "allowable load tolerance," calculated as ten percent of prescribed weight limits, and exempts certain vehicles from axle spacing requirements if they adhere to a maximum weight of 20,000 pounds per axle plus the allowable load tolerance. The bill also allows for the use of portable scales in weight enforcement, grants counties authority to impose lower weight limits, and aligns state regulations with federal standards for natural gas-fueled vehicles. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2024, reflecting a commitment to support natural gas vehicles while ensuring compliance with federal regulations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 32-9-20, 32-9-20
Engrossed: 32-9-20, 32-9-20
Enrolled: 32-9-20, 32-9-20