Idaho Senate Backs Heavier Truck Loads

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — The Senate backed a plan aimed at allowing big trucks on more miles of Idaho roads, pushed by the Idaho Forest Group to lower shipping costs for timber companies and boost the economy. Wednesday's 22-13 vote came after spirited debate about safety of expanding big trucks to much of Idaho, particularly its winding northern roadways.

It now heads to the House. Since 2003, Idaho has allowed 129,000-pound trucks on select southern routes. With this, big trucks would be allowed on more of the state's roads, provided local highway districts agree based on criteria set by the Idaho Transportation Department.

Proponents said local agencies have power to turn down expansion. Foes focused on fears this could make Idaho's roads more dangerous — and disadvantage smaller trucking companies without the big equipment.