House Bill 615 amends Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Section 55-7-201, to modify regulations regarding the transportation of poles, logs, or timber. The bill removes the previous limitation on the length of such loads and introduces new stipulations. Under the amended subsection (f), vehicles transporting these materials must not exceed seventy-five feet in length unless a permit is obtained. Additionally, the load must either be hauled by a trailer equipped with specific safety features or be followed by an escort vehicle displaying an "OVERSIZE LOAD" sign that meets defined size and visibility requirements.

Furthermore, the bill includes a provision that exempts the departments of safety and transportation from complying with any part of the act if adherence could jeopardize federal funding or grants. However, these departments are still required to comply with any provisions that do not pose such a risk. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, ensuring that the public welfare is prioritized.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 55-7-201