Special permits proposed for longer combination vehicles

Permits would be granted for vehicles hauling seasonally harvested products under a bill advanced from general file March 22.

LB740, introduced by Ogallala Sen. Ken Schilz, would allow longer combination vehicles that are up to 10 percent greater than the maximum length specified by law to carry an additional 15 percent of the maximum weight allowed for up to 70 miles.

“This will allow Nebraska to keep up with neighboring states, especially when it comes to conducting business in other states,” Schilz said.

Under the bill, such permits would be valid for up to 120 total days per calendar year.

A Transportation and Telecommunications Committee amendment, adopted 34-0, would allow a semitrailer operator to exceed the 40 foot length limitation without exceeding a length of 59 feet 6 inches, including the load.

Senators advanced the bill on a 34-0 vote.