SEPTAGE HAULERS: WEIGHT LIMIT S.B. 491: COMMITTEE SUMMARY
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Senate Bill 491 (as introduced 5-9-08)
Sponsor: Senator Michelle A. McManus
Committee: Transportation


Date Completed: 9-22-08

CONTENT The bill would amend the Michigan Vehicle Code to permit the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) or a county road commission to grant exemptions from seasonal weight restrictions for septage haulers.
The Code prescribes maximum axle loads and gross vehicle weights for various configurations of vehicles. During the months of March, April, and May, the maximum axle load allowable on concrete pavements or pavements with a concrete base must be reduced by 25% from the specified maximum load, and by 35% on all other types of roads. Additionally, the maximum wheel load may not exceed 525 pounds per inch of tire width on concrete and concrete base or 450 pounds per inch of tire width on all other roads while the seasonal road restrictions are in effect.


The bill would permit the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) for roads under its jurisdiction, and a county road commission for roads under its jurisdiction, to grant exemptions from seasonal weight restrictions for septage haulers on a case-by-case basis when requested by electronic, telephonic, or any other means. Except as provided below, MDOT or the county road commission, as applicable, would have to grant or deny a request for exemption within one day.


If, in requesting an exemption, the septage hauler indicated that the exemption was requested in order to respond to an emergency, MDOT or the county road commission would have to respond to the emergency request within one business day by electronic, telephonic, or any other means.

A denial of a request for an exemption would have to be accompanied by a statement of the reason for denial and alternate routes for which the permit could be issued. A septage hauler whose request for exemption was denied could appeal to the State Transportation Commission or the county road commission.


MCL 257.722 Legislative Analyst: Curtis Walker

FISCAL IMPACT
The bill would have no fiscal impact on State or local government.

Fiscal Analyst: Debra Hollon

Analysis was prepared by nonpartisan Senate staff for use by the Senate in its deliberations and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent. sb491/0708