The bill amends Section 31-25-21 of the General Laws regarding the issuance of permits for vehicles exceeding standard size and weight limits on highways. It introduces provisions for the issuance of blanket permits for non-divisible loads, specifically including boats and marine assets, which were not previously covered. The annual fee for these blanket permits is set at four hundred dollars ($400), exempting the payor from single trip permit fees for non-divisible loads under one hundred thirty thousand pounds (130,000 lbs.).

Additionally, the bill specifies that the vehicle must be certified originally by the manufacturer to possess the braking and carrying capacity for the weight specified on the application. It outlines that blanket permits may be issued for boats and marine assets upon payment of the fee set forth. The bill removes references to construction equipment in several sections, replacing them with more general terms.

It establishes that blanket permits will not be granted for travel over certain bridges and prohibits travel through zones with reduced lane widths. Upon approval of the annual blanket permit application, the permit shall be valid for a period not exceeding one year. Violations of permit regulations can lead to fines and revocation of permit privileges for repeated offenses. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the permitting process for oversized vehicles while ensuring safety and compliance with transportation regulations.

Statutes affected:
5730: 31-25-21
5730  SUB A: 31-25-21