AK HB259

Repeals and reenacts AS 28.35.251 to create three-tiered criminal offenses for failure to contain or confine vehicle loads on highways: first degree (criminal negligence causing serious physical injury), second degree (criminal negligence causing $5,000+ property damage), and third degree (basic violation).

Requires loaded vehicles to prevent materials from dropping, leaking, escaping, or shifting in ways that adversely affect vehicle stability or maneuverability, and subjects loads to commissioner-approved settlement or cleaning methods.

Mandates at least six inches of freeboard around the entire perimeter of sand, gravel, dirt, rock, or similar material loads, or alternatively requires the load to be covered and securely fastened.

Establishes penalties ranging from $300 to $2,500 for third degree infractions based on prior convictions, class B misdemeanor for second degree, and class A misdemeanor for first degree offenses.

Exempts highway maintenance vehicles, commercial motor vehicles subject to federal cargo securement standards, natural accumulation of snow and ice, snow removal vehicles, and random litter from these requirements.