A recently introduced bill would authorize states to allow the operation of trucks with a gross vehicle weight of 97,000 pounds on Interstates.
Current laws limit the weight of five-axle trucks on Interstates to 80,000 pounds.
"The legislation requires that trucks operating above 80,000 pounds must add a sixth axle to compensate for the extra weight," say officials from the American Trucking Associations.
"The extra axle adds more brakes, preventing an increase in stopping distances, and avoids additonal pavement damage.
"Most importantly, the operation of this new, more efficient vehicle will allow trucking companies to deliver the nation's freight while making fewer trips."
The bill, "The Safe and Efficient Transportation Act of 2009 (H.R. 1799)," was introduced by U.S. Reps Michael Michaud (D-Maine) and Jean Schmidt (R-Ohio).
