HF2798

HF2798 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Escort vehicle requirements for overdimensional loads modified.

Related bill: SF3004

AI Generated Summary

Purpose of the Bill

The bill seeks to update regulations related to the transportation of overdimensional loads in Minnesota. It aims to refine the escort vehicle requirements for such loads to enhance safety and traffic management.

Main Provisions

Escort Vehicle Requirements:
- No escort vehicle is required if the load is 15 feet or less wide at the bottom or 16 feet or less wide at the top.
- On multilane divided roadways, only one rear escort vehicle is needed if the load exceeds these dimensions.
- On undivided roadways, both a lead and a rear escort vehicle are required if the dimensions are exceeded.
- Additional requirements include a lead escort and a licensed peace officer if the load extends beyond the centerline on an undivided roadway, potentially affecting traffic or creating hazardous conditions.
Permits and Escorts:
- The commissioner has authority to specify the number of escort vehicles required and whether these must be operated by licensed peace officers or escort drivers.
- The commissioner can mandate more escorts for public safety or road protection, or authorize fewer escorts if alternative safety measures are effective.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

The bill modifies existing statutes to make escort vehicle requirements more explicit, clarifying when peace officers are needed.
Empowers the commissioner to make discretionary changes based on safety needs or road integrity concerns, potentially allowing adjustments to escort requirements when justified by alternative safety protocols.

Relevant Terms

Overdimensional load
Escort vehicle
Multilane divided roadway
Undivided roadway
Licensed peace officer
Commissioner authority

Bill text versions

Introduction PDF file

Past committee meetings

Transportation Finance and Policy on: April 02, 2025 13:00

Actions

Date	Chamber	Where	Type	Name	Committee Name
March 25, 2025	House	Floor	Action	Introduction and first reading, referred to	Transportation Finance and Policy

Citations

[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Specific criteria for when licensed peace officers are required as escorts."
      ],
      "removed": [
        "None"
      ],
      "summary": "This bill modifies escort vehicle requirements for overdimensional loads under section 169.812, subdivision 2.",
      "modified": [
        "Changes specify conditions for requiring escorts on undivided roadways."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "169.812",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 2"
  }
]