SB3398 Summary

• Amends the Illinois Vehicle Code to establish a "covered farm vehicle" definition and registration option for farm trucks and articulated vehicles transporting agricultural commodities, livestock, or farm supplies.

• Allows vehicle owners to pay an optional $10 annual surcharge beginning January 1, 2015, for vehicles in the 12,000 lbs. and less flat weight plate categories to designate them as covered farm vehicles with special identification for law enforcement.

• Defines covered farm vehicles as straight trucks or articulated vehicles operated by farm owners, operators, or employees/family members, excluding those transporting hazardous materials requiring placarding.

• Establishes weight and distance limitations for covered farm vehicles: 26,001 lbs. or less for interstate commerce, or greater weights if traveling intrastate or within 150 air miles of the farm.

• Specifies that covered farm vehicle designation does not alter the vehicle's underlying registration classification and does not include for-hire motor carrier operations, except for tenant operations under crop share farm lease agreements.