House Bill No. 1961, introduced by Representative Wilder, amends existing vehicle weight limit regulations in Louisiana to provide specific exceptions for licensed towing companies engaged in vehicle tows. The bill modifies R.S. 32:386 by allowing increased weight limits for various axle types when a Louisiana licensed towing company is involved. Specifically, the total gross weight for a single axle is raised from 20,000 pounds to 22,000 pounds, for tandem axles from 34,000 pounds to 37,000 pounds, for tridum axles from 42,000 pounds to 45,000 pounds, and for quadrum axles from 50,000 pounds to 53,000 pounds. These exceptions apply only on state-maintained highways, excluding the Interstate System.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that vehicles and combinations of vehicles must be loaded to comply with axle limitations, but it introduces a provision that allows for a tolerance of exceeding the axle weight limits by more than 2,000 pounds for certain axle types and 3,000 pounds for others, provided the vehicle is not exceeding the overall gross weight limits. The legislation aims to facilitate towing operations while ensuring safety and compliance with weight regulations on Louisiana highways.

Statutes affected:
HB950 Original: 32:386(C)
HB950 Engrossed: 32:386(C)