Congressman Mike Michaud has introduced legislation that will let states decide whether they want to increase the weight trucks may carry on their interstate systems.
Currently, trucks traveling on Maine's interstate system must comply with federal weight limits of 80,000 lbs. But Maine's logging industry often requires heavier loads, so Maine roads are capped at 100,000 lbs. According to Michaud's office, this results in more trucks on back roads, which in turn reduces fuel efficiencies, increases safety risks and causes the state to pay more for paving.
“In working on this issue for years, I have come to realize that ....