Senate Bill 432 Summary

• Amends Michigan vehicle code section 722 to establish that normal axle load limits apply except for vehicle mounted mobile pavement marking equipment covered in new section 722b.

• Creates new section 722b establishing higher maximum axle weights for vehicle mounted mobile pavement marking equipment, including front axles up to 22,000 pounds, tandem axles up to 40,000 pounds (or 36,000 pounds in certain configurations), and a maximum gross weight of 84,000 pounds.

• Defines "vehicle mounted mobile pavement marking equipment" as a cab, chassis, and operating apparatus permanently affixed together that performs pavement marking operations, including grinders, groovers, waterblasters, and marking stripers.

• Provides exemptions from seasonal weight restrictions (March-May) for vehicles transporting agricultural commodities and public utility vehicles under specified circumstances, including permit requirements and notification procedures to county road commissions.

• Permits the state transportation department and local authorities to designate highways where bridges and road surfaces can accommodate heavier loading, with maximum tandem axle assembly loading of 16,000 pounds per axle when spaced 9 feet or more apart.