The Texas Construction News staff writer
SB 1394: Updating concrete truck regulations
A focal point of the seminar was Texas Senate Bill 1394, legislation from the 89th Legislature addressing weight and tire load restrictions for ready-mixed concrete trucks. The bill aligns state regulations with modern federal standards to improve efficiency while protecting infrastructure.
Key provisions include:
- Tandem axle limit: Increases the maximum allowable weight for tandem axles (or groups of axles within 9 feet) to 46,000 pounds.
- Single axle limit: Sets the maximum weight for single axles at 23,000 pounds.
- Gross weight: Establishes a gross weight cap of 69,000 pounds or the maximum allowed under the federal bridge formula, whichever is greater.
- Safety compliance: Mandates that loads must not exceed the manufacturer’s tire load ratings to ensure roadway safety.
TCEQ air permitting updates
Experts from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) provided critical updates for plant operators:
Sam Short, deputy director of the Air Permits Division, outlined recent changes and procedural updates in the state’s air permitting process.
Chad Dumas, air dispersion modeling team leader, discussed the latest developments in modeling practices, which are essential for demonstrating compliance with National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS).
