Bill Allowing Trucks To Haul Heavier Loads Sparks Controversy

GOLDEN TRIANGLE, Miss. (WCBI)- There could soon be more leeway for truck drivers hauling heavy loads throughout the Magnolia State.

Lawmakers are considering Senate Bill 2418.

If passed, it will increase the weight limit for hauling timber and other farm products.

Rough, cracked, and damaged roads are a common sight across the state. That’s why
Monroe County Board of Supervisors President, Billy Kirkpatrick said he fears that if trucks are able to carry heavier loads, it’ll add more stress to the already vulnerable roads.

“We struggle with road maintenance, and we see this as something that is going to increase damage to our county roads,” said Kirkpatrick.

Drivers currently are allowed haul up to 80,000 pounds on all roads and 84,000 pounds if a driver has a harvest permit.

“Our roads are not built to a set of specifications to carry 80,000 pound loads, much less and 84,000 pound loads,” Kirkpatrick expressed. “Most of our roads are going to be right at about 57,000 pound loads.”

Trucks are only allowed to carry 2,000 pounds on each end of the truck.

However, if Senate Bill 2418 passes, it’ll allow drivers to haul up to 4,000 pounds on each end.

“It’s a safety factor,” Kirkpatrick explained. “You are concerned for the safety of the citizens traveling those roads, you’re even concerned with the trucks crossing.”

While Kirkpatrick opposes the legislation, Oktibbeha County Board of Supervisors President, Orlando Trainer sees it a different way.

“Growth will come whether you want it or not and whether you’re prepared for it or not, said Trainer, “I can understand people being able to haul more because they will be able to make more.”

Trainer also adds that safety is key, and that if the legislation does pass, he’d like to see lawmakers work to keep the roads up-to-par to be able to handle the heavy loads.

“My hope is that if this bill passes, those same individuals that support this bill will be able to support an increase in funding for infrastructure from some aspect or some capacity this term for our counties and cities what have you throughout the state of Mississippi,” Turner expressed.

Senate Bill 2418 passed in the and is now being debated in the Senate.