State Watch – December 2023/January 2024
As the year winds down and the calendar turns to a new year, OOIDA is focused on providing truckers with information on important legislation during the coming year. In the next few months, state lawmakers from all corners of the country will rapidly add to the list by offering new bills.
The following is a roundup of noteworthy issues addressed by governors in recent weeks, as well as the latest activity on other notable efforts. For a complete rundown of state legislation, visit LandLine.media.
Arizona
A new Arizona law directs the state Department of Transportation or a local authority to provide proof that a large truck cannot safely operate along a major arterial street linking multiple communities before a truck-restricted-route designation is posted. If a highway is deemed to be unsafe, exceptions cannot be granted for categories, types or groups of routes.
SB1097 allows a person to make a written request for ADOT to review any route restrictions for vehicles of legal size. The agency must act on the request within 90 days of receiving it.
California
California Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed into law a bill that is touted to address existing insurance data gaps for heavy-duty trucks and truck fleets that use advanced fuels and related technologies. AB844 requires the state to collect data on the availability and affordability of insurance for affected trucks.
Additionally, an “online insurance information resource tool” will be created for the public to find information and insurance options.
Another new law authorizes the use of speed ticket cameras. Previously AB645, the law authorizes a five-year pilot program to utilize speed enforcement cameras in areas described as “safety corridors.” Freeways and expressways are excluded.
Newsom vetoed a bill, AB376, to establish a pilot program to benefit certain students participating in entry-level truck driver training programs.
Federal financial aid is not available for vocational programs, which last less than 10 weeks; therefore, trucking programs, which last about four weeks, are not eligible for federal financial aid or federal student loans. Additionally, programs lasting less than four months are ineligible for state financial aid programs.
State lawmakers voted with unanimous consent to send to the governor’s desk a bill that would provide Cal Grant C eligibility to potential truck drivers. In his veto message, Newsom cited financial concerns for the state.
Illinois
One new law in Illinois is intended to rein in corruption tied to automated enforcement.
HB3903 prohibits campaign contributions from contractors who provide the camera equipment to any political action committee created by a contractor and any affiliates.
Another provision authorizes the Illinois DOT to revoke any permit for red-light cameras if any official or employee who serves that county or municipality is charged with bribery, official misconduct or a similar crime related to the use of ticket cameras.
Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Senate has approved legislation that targets unpaid tolls. SB473 would garnish state lottery winnings in excess of $2,500. Taxpayers due a state income tax refund also would have unpaid toll amounts deducted from their refund.
A House bill would extend the authorization of speed ticket cameras in active work zones around the state. The program has a Feb. 16, 2024, sunset date.
The cameras issue citations for exceeding the posted speed by at least 11 mph in active work zones. HB1662 would make the program permanent.
Wisconsin
Work is progressing in the Wisconsin Senate on legislation to create a commercial driver training grant program in the state.
SB271 would require the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development to establish and administer the grant program. The bill specifies that a CDL training provider must satisfy entry-level driver training requirements established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
Grant amounts awarded would be limited to 50% of the training costs or $3,000, whichever is less, for each individual trained. The program would be funded with $250,000 through the approved 2023-2025 biennial budget. LL