FINAL BILL REPORT

                            SB 6205

                          C 305 L 94

                      SYNOPSIS AS ENACTED

Brief Description:  Regulating ready‑mix mixer trucks.

SPONSORS: Senators Vognild and Prince

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

BACKGROUND:

Ready-mix cement trucks have two types of controls that operate the retractable or tag axle.   These controls are used to distribute weight, thereby reducing pavement damage.  The up/down switch, usually located in the cab, controls the lifting of the axle.  The variable control, used to adjust axle loadings by regulating air pressure, is located outside the cab. 

By Department of Transportation administrative rule, the up/down switch for a retractable lift axle may not be located within the reach of the driver.   However, if the lift axle cannot be raised or lowered while the vehicle is in motion, the up/down switch may be located in the cab.  This means that the up/down switch must be modified so that the axle cannot be raised or lowered while the vehicle is in motion.  The variable control is still required to be located outside the cab. 

SUMMARY:

Cement truck operators may use the up/down switch located within the cab to raise or lower the retractable rear booster or tag axle while the vehicle is in motion.

VOTES ON FINAL PASSAGE:

Senate    42   0

House     98   0    (House amended)

Senate    46   0    (Senate concurred)

EFFECTIVE:June 9, 1994