HB127 Alabama 2010 Session

Updated Feb 27, 2026

Notable

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Greg Wren
Republican
Session: Regular Session 2010
Title: Trucks, weight limit for vehicles equipped with a functioning auxiliary power or idle reduction technology increased, Sec. 32-9-20 am'd.
Summary: HB127 would let certain trucks carry up to 400 extra pounds if they have a functioning auxiliary power or idle reduction technology, to reduce fuel use and emissions.
What This Bill Does
It amends Alabama Code 32-9-20 to add an extra 400 pounds to weight limits for vehicles equipped with a functioning auxiliary power or idle reduction technology. To qualify, operators must provide written proof of the APU weight and certify that the idle reduction technology is fully functional at all times; proof must be available to law enforcement. The extra weight applies to gross weight, axle weight, tandem weight, and bridge formula limits on state highways, not exceeding the lesser of 400 pounds or the certified weight. The change aims to promote fuel efficiency and emissions reductions, and enforcement provisions and tolerances remain in place under existing law.

Who It Affects
Commercial trucking operators and drivers who install and use auxiliary power or idle reduction technology; they could gain up to 400 additional pounds of load capacity if they meet certification requirements.
State and local law enforcement, the Department of Transportation, and other authorities responsible for enforcing weight limits, who will verify APU weight and functionality and apply the new allowance.

Key Provisions
Adds up to 400 pounds to gross weight, axle weight, tandem weight, and bridge formula limits for vehicles with a functioning auxiliary power or idle reduction technology.
Eligibility requires written proof/certification of the APU weight and demonstration that idle reduction technology is fully functional at all times; proof must be available to law enforcement if needed.
The allowed extra weight cannot exceed the lesser of 400 pounds or the certified weight; applies on state highways and must conform to existing maximums and federal allowances.
Enforcement provisions, tolerances, portable scales procedures, and the roles of DOT and law enforcement remain in effect to ensure compliance.
Effective date: immediate upon the Governor's approval (or when the act becomes law).
Existing exemptions and weight rules for certain agricultural vehicles and special cases remain in place, and are not overturned by this bill.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.
Subjects: Motor Vehicles