This bill proposes significant changes to vehicle weight regulations in Minnesota, raising the maximum allowable gross weight from 80,000 pounds to 108,000 pounds. It eliminates the requirement for special hauling and overweight permits, streamlining the process for vehicle operators. The bill amends several sections of the Minnesota Statutes, including sections 168.013 and 169.824, and repeals various provisions related to overweight permits and regulations. Additionally, it modifies the tax structure for vehicle registration based on gross weight, ensuring that taxes are imposed for each ton or fraction thereof exceeding the new weight limit. The bill also updates operational conditions for vehicles on highways, removing certain restrictions on gross vehicle weight and axle weight limits.

Moreover, the legislation introduces civil penalties for vehicle owners or lessees operating above the weight limits, with a structured penalty system based on excess weight. It specifies that a vehicle cannot exceed a weight restriction of five tons per axle by more than two tons per axle and outlines penalties for violations, including a fee of five cents per pound over the permitted weight or a flat fee of $100. The bill also clarifies definitions for agricultural products and road construction materials, allowing for the issuance of permits for six-axle and seven-axle vehicles with specified weight limits. Overall, the bill aims to facilitate transportation while ensuring compliance with safety and weight regulations, with changes set to take effect on August 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 168.013, 169.824, 169.8261, 169.86, 169.863, 169.871