Bill > SB0596

This bill amends Tennessee's transportation regulations for vehicles hauling poles, logs, or timber longer than 75 feet. Specifically, it provides two options for such vehicles: first, they can use a trailer with an extendable and retractable rear impact protection that meets national highway safety standards and extends beyond the longest piece of cargo; or second, they can be followed by an escort vehicle displaying a prominently sized "OVERSIZE LOAD" sign. The bill includes a safety provision allowing the Department of Safety or Department of Transportation to opt out of certain requirements if complying would jeopardize federal funding. The new regulations will take effect on July 1, 2025. The changes aim to improve road safety by ensuring that exceptionally long timber-hauling vehicles have additional safety measures in place to alert other drivers and protect against potential accidents, while providing flexibility for trucking companies to choose between trailer modifications or escort vehicles.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0596&ga=114