The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 169.812, subdivision 2, to modify the requirements for escort vehicles for overdimensional loads. It specifies that no escort vehicle is needed for loads that are 15 feet wide or less at the bottom or 16 feet wide or less at the top. For loads exceeding these dimensions, the bill outlines the number of escort vehicles required based on the type of roadway: one rear escort on multilane divided roadways and one lead and one rear escort on undivided roadways. Additionally, it mandates that when an overdimensional load extends beyond the centerline on an undivided roadway, a lead escort vehicle, a rear escort vehicle, and a lead licensed peace officer are required.

The bill also introduces new requirements for permits issued by the commissioner. It removes the previous language that allowed the commissioner to specify the number of escort vehicles and whether they must be licensed peace officers. Instead, it now requires the commissioner to specify the number of escort vehicles needed and whether the operators must be licensed peace officers or can be additional escort drivers. Furthermore, the commissioner is granted the authority to authorize fewer escorts if alternative safety measures are established by the carrier of the overdimensional load. This section is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 169.812