Trucking Weight Limit Exemption Signed into Law

Truckers will soon be able to take to state and local roads with heavier cargo.

Gov. Charlie Crist has signed into law HB 1271, a measure that raises the weight limit for truck cargo from 80,000 to 88,000 pounds.

The law gives the Florida Department of Transportation and local governments the authority to issue permits allowing for the heavier weights on state and local roads, as long as truckers avoid certain bridges that cannot withstand the strain. The permits aren't for use on any interstate.

The law, a major priority late in the session for the commercial trucking industry, takes effect July 1.