S. 2108: Vehicle Axle Redistribution Increases Allow New Capacities for Efficiency Act

This bill, titled the Vehicle Axle Redistribution Increases Allow New Capacities for Efficiency Act or the VARIANCE Act, aims to modify existing regulations concerning the transportation of dry bulk goods by commercial motor vehicles. The main focus of the bill is to establish an axle weight variance specifically for these vehicles.

Key Provisions of the Bill

• This legislation would create a new definition for dry bulk goods. These are described as homogeneous, unmarked, unpackaged, nonliquid cargos that are transported using specially designed trailers.
• The bill allows commercial motor vehicles carrying dry bulk goods to exceed the standard axle weight limit. Specifically, these vehicles could be permitted to carry up to 110 percent of the maximum weight allowed on any axle or axle group. This exception is applicable as long as the overall weight of the vehicle does not surpass the established maximum gross weight limitation.

Purpose and Objectives

The intention behind allowing higher axle weight limits for dry bulk transportation is to increase efficiency in the movement of goods and to potentially reduce the number of trips needed, thus saving fuel and lowering transportation costs. This could benefit both businesses that rely on the transport of dry bulk goods and the overall logistics and supply chain sectors.

Impact on Regulations

By amending title 23 of the United States Code, which governs federal highway system regulations, the bill aims to ensure that state and federal laws align with this new variance for dry bulk goods transportation. It seeks to streamline legal frameworks governing the trucking and freight industries.

Relevant Companies

• UL - Unilever PLC: As a company dealing with various bulk consumer goods, this bill could allow for more efficient transport logistics and potentially lower transportation costs.
• ADM - Archer-Daniels-Midland Company: This agriculture-based company may benefit from increased efficiencies in transporting bulk crops and other products.
• DAL - Delta Air Lines, Inc.: Should the bill affect the freight and logistics capabilities of the transport market broadly, Delta's cargo services might adapt or change based on projections of efficiency in road transport.