SB55 Alabama 2017 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Gerald H. AllenSenator

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2017

Title

Gas, natural gas, conversion of motor vehicles for operating on compressed natural or liquefied gas, extended weight allowances, Sec. 32-9-20 am'd.

Summary

SB55 would let certain natural gas-powered or converted trucks carry more weight on interstate highways and add a 400-pound boost for idle-reduction equipment, under Alabama's current size and weight rules.

What This Bill Does

It allows vehicles using conversion equipment to operate on compressed natural gas or liquefied natural gas to exceed standard weight limits on interstate highways, up to a maximum gross weight of 82,000 pounds, by the difference between the natural gas tank/fueling system and a diesel tank/fueling system. It also adds a 400-pound extra allowance for vehicles with auxiliary power units or idle-reduction technology, provided the weight is certified and the technology is functional. The changes apply to interstate highways with respect to EPA-certified natural gas engines or conversion units, while non-interstate limits and enforcement rules remain in place and local governments may set lower limits if they choose.

Who It Affects

• Commercial trucking fleets and drivers that operate natural gas-powered engines or have natural gas conversion equipment, who could haul heavier loads on interstate highways (up to 82,000 pounds).
• Operators of vehicles with auxiliary power units (APUs) or idle-reduction technology, who may gain up to 400 pounds of weight if they provide certification and meet functional requirements.
• Law enforcement and State Transportation Department personnel who enforce weight limits and verify documentation for the new allowances.
• Counties and cities that may set weight limits lower than those in the bill on local roads.

Key Provisions

• Amends Section 32-9-20 to authorize an interstate weight increase for natural gas-powered vehicles up to 82,000 pounds gross weight, equal to the difference between the vehicle's natural gas tank/fueling system and a diesel tank/fueling system, for EPA-certified engines or EPA-approved conversion units.
• Allows a 400-pound add-on to gross/axle/tandem/bridge weight limits for vehicles with an auxiliary power unit or idle-reduction technology, contingent on written certification of the APU weight and proof the technology is fully functional.
• Applies these weight increases specifically to interstate highways; maintains existing limits on other roads and requires enforcement of all current rules, including tolerances and potential postings by the Transportation Department.
• Effective date is the first day of the third month after the Governor signs the bill (becomes law accordingly).

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

Subjects

Energy