TRANSPORTING MAPLE SAP                                                                          H.B. 4418:

                                                                                                    SUMMARY OF BILL

                                                                                      REPORTED FROM COMMITTEE

House Bill 4418 (as reported without amendment)

Sponsor:  Representative Lee Chatfield

House Committee:  Transportation and Infrastructure

Senate Committee:  Transportation

CONTENT

The bill would amend the Michigan Vehicle Code to create an exception to the seasonal weight restrictions for vehicles transporting maple sap.

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 must be reduced by 25% from the specified maximum load on concrete pavements or pavements with a concrete base, 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 other vehicles.

The bill would amend the definition of "agricultural commodities" to include maple sap.

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.

Date Completed:  3-18-16                                                 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.