Iowa House Bill HF199

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23

Caption

A bill for an act exempting hydroexcavation equipment from certain size, weight, load, and permit requirements on highways.(Formerly HSB 36.)

Impact

If enacted, HF199 will officially amend Iowa Code Section 321.453, integrating hydroexcavation equipment into the categories of vehicles that benefit from reduced regulatory burdens. This could significantly impact the daily operations of businesses utilizing hydroexcavation technology, particularly in construction and utility sectors where underground excavation is necessary. The easing of restrictions could lower operational costs associated with compliance and permit acquisition, encouraging more businesses to adopt hydroexcavation practices for safer and more efficient digging processes.

Summary

House File 199 (HF199) proposes to exempt hydroexcavation equipment from certain size, weight, load, and permit requirements for operation on highways that are not part of the interstate system. The bill seeks to add hydroexcavation equipment to the list of vehicles and machinery that are exempt from specific restrictions outlined in Iowa’s motor vehicle laws. These exemptions typically apply to fire apparatus, maintenance vehicles, and construction tools used in certain agricultural contexts, thereby granting similar operational freedoms to hydroexcavation equipment.

Contention

However, the introduction of HF199 may lead to discussions around safety and road management. Critics might argue that exempting hydroexcavation equipment from certain regulations could lead to concerns about road safety, given that less oversight could potentially result in heavier or improperly loaded vehicles on non-interstate highways. Furthermore, the bill does not extend additional safety requirements for hydroexcavation vehicles that are otherwise mandated for agricultural equipment, which may raise concerns over public safety among local officials and road maintenance authorities.