Louisiana is banning oversize and overweight vehicles from its state highways on Independence Day.

Department of Transportation and Development Secretary Dr. Kam K. Movassaghi said the decision was made to provide maximum safety for drivers traveling on state highways during this holiday.

The department's truck permit office also will be closed Thursday and Friday, July 4-5. Movement of oversize and/or overweight permit loads will be allowed on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, July 5-7, following the holiday, however, the proper permits must be obtained by the close of business Wednesday, July 3.