SB331 Alabama 2010 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Quinton Ross

Democrat

Session

Regular Session 2010

Title

Motor vehicles, buses, length and width requirements, increased, operation of articulated motor buses authorized on state highways, Sec. 32-9-21am'd.

Summary

The bill lets longer motor buses operate on Alabama highways: standard buses up to 45 feet and articulated buses up to 60 feet, with a width limit of 8.5 feet.

What This Bill Does

It changes the maximum allowed length for motor buses. Standard passenger-for-hire buses may now be up to 45 feet long and 8.5 feet wide, and articulated buses may be up to 60 feet long and 8.5 feet wide. Detachable wind deflection devices approved by the Department of Transportation are not counted in the length or width, and safety equipment requirements remain in effect. The changes apply to motor buses used for hire on state highways and do not otherwise alter existing bus regulations.

Who It Affects

• Bus operators and transportation companies that run passenger-for-hire services, who could use longer standard or articulated buses on highways.
• The Alabama Department of Transportation and safety regulators, who would approve wind deflection devices and enforce equipment standards.
• Other highway users, who may experience changes in traffic patterns or bus appearances due to longer buses.

Key Provisions

• Amends Section 32-9-21 to raise the maximum length for standard motor buses from 40 feet to 45 feet, with width remaining 8.5 feet, excluding approved wind deflection devices from length/width calculations.
• Allows articulated motor buses up to 60 feet in length and 8.5 feet in width, excluding approved wind deflection devices from length/width calculations.
• Detachable wind deflection devices approved by the Department of Transportation are excluded from the bus's length/width measurements; safety equipment requirements continue to apply.
• Effective date: the act becomes effective on the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval; other bus laws remain unchanged.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 25, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Motor Vehicles