SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Gov. JB Pritzker signed a bill into law Friday to create a weight limit exemption for clean energy trucks. The change could help businesses using hydrogen and electric vehicles, but downstate lawmakers are concerned about potential road damage.
The legislation calls for a 2,000-pound allowance for vehicles operated by engines fueled wholly or partially by natural gas, electric batteries, or hydrogen fuel cells. Sponsors filed the plan to help a southwest suburban company working with DHL to add hydrogen-powered trucks to their U.S. fleet.
"This 2,000-pound weight allowance would bring the weight for cargo closer to the weight that is available for a diesel vehicle, contributing to smoother traffic, less greenhouse gas emissions and quieter travel," said Sen. Meg Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood).
Diesel trucks pay into the state's road fund based on use, meaning truck companies pay more for frequent travel with heavier loads of cargo. Yet, GOP leaders said electric and hydrogen trucks only pay a flat $100 fee each year.
"This would allow them to rip up our roads without contributing their fair share to the road fund that is used to repair and improve them," said Sen. Terri Bryant (R-Murphysboro). "Increasing the weight limit to a 2,000-pound allowance without adjusting the road fund contribution worsens that imbalance."
Some argue this law would put an unfair burden on downstate counties that have more roads and bridges. Sponsors said they are willing to discuss compensation options for communities with township roads that could be damaged.
However, opponents wish the plan hadn't been put up for a vote.
"It's a district initiative because you manufacture the trucks, but it's tearing up our roads and bridges," Plummer said. "It's endangering our constituents."Â
The law passed out of the Senate on a 44-8 vote and received a 75-37 vote in the House. The change will take effect on June 1.Â
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