House Bill No. by Representative St. Blanc amends and reenacts R.S. 32:383(A)(1) and enacts R.S. 32:383(A)(5) and (6) to enhance regulations regarding vehicle loads. The bill establishes that vehicles must be constructed and loaded to prevent any contents from escaping while traveling on highways. It removes previous language that allowed for certain exceptions regarding the dropping of sand or liquid substances on highways. Additionally, the bill specifies exemptions for authorized maintenance vehicles during emergencies and for vehicles that drop incidental agricultural or sugarcane harvest residue that does not pose a hazard.

The proposed law introduces penalties for violations, stating that individuals who knowingly load or unload vehicles in a manner that violates these regulations will be considered prima facie evidence of liability. Those found guilty of willful violations will face misdemeanor charges and fines of up to $250 per offense. Notably, the bill clarifies that proof of actual spillage is not necessary to establish a violation and grants the office of state police the authority to adopt rules for implementing these provisions.

Statutes affected:
HB1213 Original: 32:383(A)(1)