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 towing a vehicle. 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 still adhere to axle limitations, but it specifies that violations will not be considered unless the axle weight exceeds certain thresholds—2,000 pounds for single and tridum axles, and 3,000 pounds for tandem and quadrum axles. The legislation aims to facilitate towing operations while maintaining safety and regulatory standards on Louisiana's highways.

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