HB 1970 -- TRAFFIC REGULATIONS

SPONSOR:  Koller

COMMITTEE ACTION:  Voted "do pass" by the Committee on
Transportation by a vote of 21 to 0.

This bill redefines "automobile transporter" to include camper
units.

The bridge formula is restructured.  Currently, one weight
formula applies to primary and interstate highways and another
weight formula applies to supplementary highways.  The bill
establishes one statewide weight structure.  The Highways and
Transportation Commission is allowed to establish maximum weight
and speed limits for vehicles using bridges that are in such
condition that weights specified by the standard weight formula
will endanger the bridge.  Special posting is required in such
cases.

The bill also increases the allowable width for special permits
for vehicles hauling lumber products and earth moving
equipment.  The maximum width is currently 14 feet wide; the
bill increases it to 16 feet.

FISCAL NOTE:  No impact on state funds.

PROPONENTS:  Supporters say that this legislation simplifies
Missouri bridge law and give the Department of Transportation
the ability to better enforce the law.  The increased width will
be a great benefit for the wood truss industry.

Testifying for the bill were Representative Koller; Department
of Transportation; and State Highway Patrol.

OPPONENTS:  There was no opposition voiced to the committee.

Robert Triplett, Legislative Analyst

HB 1970 -- Traffic Regulations

Sponsor:  Koller

This bill redefines "automobile transporter" to include camper
units.

The bridge formula is restructured.  Currently, one weight
formula applies to primary and interstate highways and another
weight formula applies to supplementary highways.  This bill
establishes one statewide weight structure.  The Highways and
Transportation Commission is allowed to establish maximum weight
and speed limits for vehicles using bridges that are in such
condition that weights specified by the standard weight formula
will endanger the bridge.  Special posting is required in such
cases.

The bill also increases the allowable width for special permits
for vehicles hauling lumber products and earth moving
equipment.  The maximum width is currently 14 feet wide; the
bill increases it to 16 feet.