Bill to Boost Truck Weights Sparks Renewed Debate

The latest round in the congressional debate over truck size and weight formally opened with the introduction of legislation May 4 that would allow states to increase the maximum truck weight to 97,000 pounds.

As introduced by Reps. Collin Peterson (D-Minn.) and Merrill Cook (R-Utah), the proposal would allow states to increase truck weights from the current 80,000-pound federal limit, as long as truckers use equipment that adds a sixth axle.

“This legislation will reduce the number of trucks on the road and the number of miles traveled, while simultaneously assisting struggling industries such as agriculture, forest products, steel, and many others,” Cook said.

Supporters acknowledge they have a tough fight ahead of them.

“Getting a 97,000-pound truck bill passed will be difficult,” Eric White, director of Americans For Safe and Efficient Transportation, told members of the National Private Truck Council at their annual meeting in Long Beach, Calif.

The alliance, based in Alexandria, Va., is comprised of numerous trucking associations, several shipper groups as well as individual shippers and carriers. The group was formed several years ago to support increased truck weights and to fight efforts to reduce truck sizes and weights.

The legislation was promptly endorsed by the National Private Truck Council and American Trucking Associations, and just as quickly denounced by the Coalition Against Bigger Trucks.

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