This bill amends the Nebraska Rules of the Road to create a framework for the issuance and revocation of permits for overweight raw-milk vehicles. It includes legislative findings that address the need for efficient processing of raw milk, the challenges of existing truck weight regulations, and the decline in processing facilities. Key definitions are established, such as "overweight raw-milk vehicle" and "bridge map," and the Department of Transportation is tasked with creating and maintaining a bridge map that identifies prohibited bridge structures for these vehicles. The bill sets a maximum gross weight limit of 107,500 pounds for overweight raw-milk vehicles and mandates adherence to federal bridge formula weight limits, while also emphasizing the importance of carrying the bridge map.

Additionally, the bill outlines the conditions for issuing permits, including the process for revocation if regulations are violated, and establishes liability for vehicle owners who damage prohibited bridge structures. The Department of Transportation is required to review and update the bridge map annually and publish it online, with a deadline for the initial map set for January 1, 2026. The bill also allows for exceptions to vehicle length regulations to ensure compliance with weight limits and includes provisions for legal action to recover repair costs for damaged bridges. Certain existing statutes are repealed, and the bill is designed to take effect immediately upon passage and approval due to an emergency clause.

Statutes affected:
Final Reading: 60-601
Slip Law: 60-601