TRANSPORTING MAPLE PRODUCTS                                                                  S.B. 314:

                                                                                  SUMMARY OF INTRODUCED BILL

                                                                                                         IN COMMITTEE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Senate Bill 314 (as introduced 5-5-15)

Sponsor:  Senator Wayne Schmidt

Committee:  Transportation

 

Date Completed:  2-17-16

 


CONTENT

 

The bill would amend the Michigan Vehicle Code to create an exception to the seasonal weight restrictions for vehicles transporting maple sap, maple syrup, and equipment used to produce maple syrup.

 

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. In addition, 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 Code contains exceptions to the seasonal restrictions for vehicles transporting agricultural commodities and, under certain circumstances, for public utility vehicles and vehicles delivering propane fuel to a home. As a rule, the county road commission must be notified in advance. The road commission must issue a permit and charge a fee that does not exceed its administrative costs.

 

The bill would amend the definition of "agricultural commodities" to include maple sap, maple syrup, and equipment used to produce maple syrup.

 

The bill would take effect 90 days after it was enacted.

 

MCL 257.722                                                           Legislative Analyst:  Drew Krogulecki

 

FISCAL IMPACT

 

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

 

                                                                                    Fiscal Analyst:  Glenn Steffens

This 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.