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 provision that permitted operation at a gross weight exceeding the maximum allowable gross weight by five percent, thereby streamlining the regulations surrounding weight permits.

Additionally, the bill outlines the qualifications for obtaining a permit, which include vehicle registration for a maximum gross weight not exceeding 80,000 pounds, satisfaction of security requirements, and payment of applicable fees. It establishes that permits are valid for one year and must be accompanied by a sticker displayed on the vehicle's front windshield, indicating the permit's expiration date. Failure to display the sticker as required constitutes a Class C misdemeanor. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if such a vote is not achieved.

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