Trucking groups are asking Congress for a pilot program on increased weights

Hauling cattle could soon get easier. The House Transportation Committee is looking at a pilot program that would test increased truck weights.

NCBA says it would be a win for truckers, but some are pushing back.

“It would be a state opt-in, so there would be no mandates, but states that wanted to participate certainly could, and I think that would go a really long way to assist us as we move forward in this truck weight space,” said Allison Rivera.

Some groups spoke out against the proposal, saying bigger and heavier does not mean safer. Aside from weights, groups are also asking for lawmakers to address parking issues, saying there is now one safe place to pull over for every 11 trucks on the road.

Related Stories
The Interior Department is proposing to repeal the Bureau of Land Management’s Public Lands Rule. This move would make huge strides to empower local decision-making and restore balance between conservation and protecting rural livelihoods tied to these public lands.
With new renewable volume obligations announced this year, the Iowa Soybean Association says they’ll be vital to a farmer’s bottom line.
The 2022 Census of Agriculture revealed a more than 30% decrease in U.S. dairy farms since 2017. The shrinking industry is now uniting to advocate for itself while also adopting technology to reduce operational strain.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) was once again on the national stage, front and center this week before the House Agriculture Committee.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Microsoft’s partnership with the National FFA Organization is helping future ag leaders gain the tools they need to drive innovation in farming and beyond.
U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to share why Ames is uniquely positioned to support expanded USDA operations.
Iowa land values dropped 3% year-over-year. Sen. Chuck Grassley said this discomforting pattern is a harbinger of crisis for farmers, as seen in the 1980s.
Prepare for tighter cash flow, delayed capital buys, and policy-driven risk management this fall.
Jed Bower, the incoming president of the National Corn Growers Association, joined us for his sector’s perspective on the ongoing government shutdown.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent last week said an announcement would be made on Tuesday. However, that self-imposed deadline has now passed.