By: Harris of Williamson H.B. No. 3484
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to weight exemptions for alternative fueled heavy weight
vehicles on state highways.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Section 621.101(b), Transportation Code, is
amended as follows:
(b) Notwithstanding Subsection (a)(3), two consecutive sets
of tandem axles may carry a gross load of not more than 34,000
pounds each if the overall distance between the first and last axles
of the consecutive sets is 36 feet or more. The overall gross
weight on a group of two or more consecutive axles may not be
heavier than 80,000 pounds, including all enforcement tolerances,
regardless of tire ratings, axle spacing (bridge), and number of
axles.
(b-1) Notwithstanding any other provision of this section,
a vehicle or combination of vehicles that is powered by an engine
fueled primarily by natural gas and hydrogen may exceed any weight
limitation under this section by an amount that is equal to the
difference between the weight of the vehicle attributable to the
natural gas and hydrogen tank and fueling system carried by that
vehicle and the weight of a comparable diesel tank and fueling
system, provided that the maximum gross weight of the vehicle or
combination of vehicles may not exceed 82,000 pounds.
SECTION 2. This Act takes effect immediately if it receives
a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as
provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution. If this
Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate effect, this
Act takes effect September 1, 2023.