INCREASE WEIGHT RATING THRESHOLD FOR “AUTOMOBILE OR LIGHT TRUCK” AND

“HEAVY-DUTY TRUCK”

House Bill 5194 (H-1) as referred to second committee

Sponsor:  Rep. Gregory Markkanen

1st Committee:  Transportation

2nd Committee:  Ways and Means

Complete to 1-28-20

SUMMARY:

House Bill 5194 would amend the Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Act to revise how the terms “automobile or light truck” and “heavy-duty truck” are defined for purposes of the act.

Currently under the act, “automobile or light truck” means a motor vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of less than 10,000 pounds, and “heavy-duty truck” means a motor vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of 10,000 pounds or more (including both single-unit and combination tractor trailer or tractor semitrailer vehicles).

The bill would increase the threshold in each definition from a gross vehicle weight of 10,000 pounds to a gross vehicle weight rating of 14,000 pounds.

That is, under the bill, “automobile or light truck” would mean a motor vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of less than 14,000 pounds, and “heavy-duty truck” would mean a motor vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 14,000 pounds or more (including both single-unit and combination tractor trailer or tractor semitrailer vehicles).

MCL 257.1302

FISCAL IMPACT:

The bill would not have a significant fiscal impact on the state or local units of government.

POSITIONS:

A representative of Auto Dealers of Michigan testified in support of the bill. (1-21-20)

The Office of the Secretary of State indicated support for the bill. (1-28-20)

                                                                                         Legislative Analyst:   E. Best

                                                                                                 Fiscal Analyst:   Michael Cnossen

■ This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House Fiscal Agency staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.