Georgia may revise heavy truck bill
A Georgia House committee is debating a bill that would allow 90,000-pound trucks to drive on statewide roads.
Currently, the maximum weight limit for trucks driving on Georgia roads is 80,000 pounds. Exceptions are made for carriers involved in the delivery of products, including live poultry, feed and waste.
The new bill will make it possible to transport heavier loads. All cargo will be allowed a 12.5% deviation from the 80,000 lb weight limit. Supporters of the bill say higher fuel prices, inflation and tight labor market conditions justify the change.
OOIDA President Todd Spencer said lower weight limits are historically not “winners” for most trucking.
“While popular with shippers, adding heavier weights on state and county roads is bad public policy,” he said. “You end up with increased wear and tear on roads and bridges not adequately constructed for those loads.
The Association is urging Georgia truck drivers to contact their state legislators to raise concerns before the House Transportation Committee hearing to discuss the bill. The hearing will take place on Thursday, February 9 at 13:00.
FightingForTruckers.com has a link where truck drivers can contact their state legislators. Visitors simply enter their zip code to get a complete list of their federal and state legislators.
