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
Heavier weights and strong late-year slaughter supported December production, but lower annual totals highlight ongoing supply tightness heading into 2026.
Junior Livestock Champions Grand Champion Market Steer, topping out at $320,000
Without additional support, many soybean operations will continue to face financial stress as they prepare for the 2026 crop.
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and Public Lands Council published a joint press release regarding the advancement of legislation to delist the Mexican Gray Wolf from the Endangered Species Act.
Placements and marketings beat expectations, but declining on-feed totals and feeder constraints keep the supply story supportive for cattle prices into 2026. Dr. Derrell Peel, with Oklahoma State University, joined us to break down cattle-on-feed numbers and provide his broader market outlook.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Sen. Deb Fischer reintroduces the HAULS Act to update hours-of-service exemptions and definitions affecting livestock and agricultural haulers. She joins us on Market Day Report to share more about her proposed legislation.
Strong crush demand and rising ethanol production are pressuring feedstocks, as traders monitor storage risks and supply chain uncertainty and await the upcoming January WASDE report.
The U.S. Meat Export Federation plans to expand its global market presence in the New Year and says it is focusing its appeal on the growing middle class worldwide.
New World Screwworm cases in Mexico, including one within 200 miles of the U.S. border, are adding pressure to livestock markets and trade decisions.
Dr. Seth Meyer Concludes Service; Dr. Justin Benavidez Appointed USDA Chief Economist
USDA data indicates that 13.7 percent of U.S. households experienced food insecurity in 2024, the highest rate since 2014, even as most households remained food secure.