State agencies extend authorization to transport fuel

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Due to the ongoing cold weather and to accommodate transport of propane and certain other commodities, the Wisconsin Departments of Transportation (WisDOT) and Administration (DOA) have determined an energy emergency exists and are extending the authorization allowing motor carriers to transport overweight loads of energy resources such as fuel and oil, along with milk commodities.  The initial authorization was issued January 3, 2014, extended February 3, and has now been extended through March 20, 2014.

During an energy emergency, after consultation with DOA, WisDOT may waive the divisible load limitation of s. 348.25 (4) (https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/statutes/348.25(4)) and authorize for a period not to exceed 30 days the operation of overweight vehicles having a registered gross weight of 50,000 pounds or more and carrying energy resources or fuel or milk commodities regardless of the highways involved to conserve energy.

Such authorization may only allow weights not more than 10 percent greater than the gross axle and axle combination weight limitations, and not more than 15 percent greater than the gross vehicle weight limitations under ss. 348.15 (https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/statutes/348.15) and 348.16 (https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/statutes/348.16).

WisDOT will also allow carriers transporting energy resources to self-declare and temporarily suspend rules related to hours of service and driver qualifications (as allowed under Wisconsin Administration Code Trans 327.09 (6)).