The bill, H.B. No. 5332, amends Section 623.011 of the Transportation Code regarding the issuance of excess axle or gross weight permits for commercial motor vehicles. The amendment allows the Texas Department of Transportation to issue permits that authorize operation at an axle weight not exceeding the maximum allowable weight plus a 10 percent tolerance. Notably, the bill removes the previous stipulation that permitted a gross weight not heavier than the maximum allowable gross weight plus a five percent tolerance, thereby simplifying the weight regulations for permit issuance.

Additionally, the bill outlines the requirements for obtaining a permit, including vehicle registration, security requirements, and payment of fees. It mandates that permits be valid for one year and carried in the vehicle, with a sticker issued for enforcement purposes. The bill also establishes penalties for failing to display the sticker correctly, classifying such an offense as a Class C misdemeanor. The act is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that vote is not achieved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Transportation Code 623.011 (Transportation Code 623)