House Bill No. 950, introduced by Representative Wilder, amends R.S. 32:386 to provide exceptions to vehicle weight and axle limits specifically for Louisiana licensed towing companies engaged in vehicle tows. The bill allows for increased weight limits on state-maintained highways, excluding the Interstate System. For instance, the total gross weight for a single axle can be up to 22,000 pounds, while tandem axles can reach 37,000 pounds, tridum axles can go up to 45,000 pounds, and quadrum axles can be 53,000 pounds when towing.
Additionally, the bill modifies existing provisions regarding axle weight violations, stating that vehicles will not be deemed in violation unless the axle weight exceeds certain thresholds. Specifically, for single and tandem axles, the violation threshold is set at 2,000 pounds, while for tandem, tridum, and quadrum axles, it is 3,000 pounds. The bill clarifies that these exceptions apply only when a Louisiana licensed towing company is involved in the tow, ensuring that the weight limits are enforced appropriately while accommodating the needs of towing operations.
Statutes affected: HB950 Original: 32:386(C)
HB950 Engrossed: 32:386(C)