The bill H.810 aims to enhance the protection of covered bridges in Vermont by requiring the Agency of Transportation to assist municipalities in establishing weight, height, and width limits for these structures. It mandates the development of informational materials and technical assistance for municipalities by November 15, 2026, to help them implement these limits and understand the associated penalties for violations. Additionally, the bill encourages municipalities to construct barriers and warning devices to prevent oversized vehicles from using covered bridges and provides guidance on potential funding opportunities for these measures.

Furthermore, the bill increases the criminal penalties for arson and intentional injury to covered bridges. It amends existing laws to specify that individuals convicted of arson of a covered bridge could face up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $2,000, while those who maliciously injure a covered bridge could be imprisoned for up to 10 years and fined up to $1,000. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 13-503, 13-3733