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HB 2394

VEH CD-WEIGHT LIMIT EXEMPTION

104th Regular Session Introduced by Harry Benton and 11 co-sponsors

HB 2394 allows electric and hydrogen fuel vehicles to exceed weight limits by up to 2,000 pounds, promoting cleaner transportation and supporting environmental goals in Illinois.

Public Act . . . . . . . . . 104-0436
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Bill Summary · HB 2394

Summary of HB 2394: Vehicle Code - Weight Limit Exemption

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HB 2394
Title: Vehicle Code - Weight Limit Exemption
Status: Sent to the Governor
Introduced: January 31, 2025
Primary Sponsor: Rep. Harry Benton

Purpose and Intent

HB 2394 aims to amend the Illinois Vehicle Code to provide specific weight limit exemptions for vehicles powered by electric batteries or hydrogen fuel cells. The intent is to encourage the use of alternative fuel vehicles by allowing them to exceed standard weight limits, thereby facilitating their operation and integration into the transportation system.

Key Provisions

  • Weight Limit Exemption: The bill allows vehicles or combinations of vehicles that are fueled wholly or partially by electric batteries or hydrogen fuel cells to exceed the posted weight limits by up to 2,000 pounds.
  • Amendment to Section 15-111: The bill modifies Section 15-111 of the Illinois Vehicle Code, which outlines the maximum allowable weights for various vehicle configurations. The new provision specifically applies to vehicles using alternative fuels.
  • Existing Weight Limits: The current weight limits for vehicles include:
    • 20,000 pounds on a single axle
    • 34,000 pounds on a tandem axle (with no axle exceeding 20,000 pounds)
    • 80,000 pounds gross weight for vehicle combinations of five or more axles

Impact

  • Affected Vehicles: The exemption primarily benefits commercial and public transportation vehicles that utilize electric or hydrogen fuel technologies. This includes delivery trucks, buses, and other heavy-duty vehicles.
  • Environmental Goals: By facilitating the use of heavier alternative fuel vehicles, the bill supports Illinois' environmental goals by promoting cleaner transportation options and potentially reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 31, 2025: Bill filed by Rep. Harry Benton.
  • February 4, 2025: First reading and referred to the Rules Committee.
  • April 8, 2025: Passed the House with a vote of 75-37-0.
  • April 9, 2025: Arrived in the Senate and passed on the same day.
  • October 15, 2025: Passed both houses and sent to the Governor.
  • November 13, 2025: Sent to the Governor for approval.

Conclusion

HB 2394 represents a significant step towards modernizing Illinois' transportation regulations by accommodating the growing use of alternative fuel vehicles. By allowing these vehicles to exceed traditional weight limits, the bill aims to enhance operational efficiency and support environmental sustainability initiatives within the state.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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