Bill > HB0615

This bill modifies Tennessee's regulations for motor vehicles transporting poles, logs, or timber by establishing two specific safety requirements for vehicles exceeding 75 feet in length. First, such vehicles must either use a trailer equipped with an extendable and retractable rear impact protection that meets national highway traffic safety administration (NHTSA) standards and extends beyond the longest piece of cargo, or they must be followed by an escort vehicle displaying a prominent "OVERSIZE LOAD" sign that is at least seven feet wide, eighteen inches high, with black letters at least ten inches tall on a yellow background. The bill includes a provision allowing the departments of safety and transportation to opt out of compliance if following the regulation might jeopardize federal funding, and it is scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2025. This legislation aims to enhance road safety by ensuring better visibility and protection for oversized vehicles transporting long timber or pole loads.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0615&ga=114