A bill that would extend an exception to the federal bridge formula for certain dump trucks in Illinois is making its way through the General Assembly.

SB1453 involves an exemption that has been in place since 1983. According to Don Schaefer of the Midwest Truckers Association, dump trucks up to 42 feet in length, used frequently in the Chicago area because of tight streets and difficult-to-navigate corners, would be allowed to carry up to 72,000 pounds under the extension. Most of the trucks run 26 feet in length.

The current exemption ends in 2004; the new bill would extend it till 2014. The bill must be extended every 10 years.

SB1453 passed the Senate 53-0 on March 20. It has passed through House committees and is awaiting a final vote in the lower chamber.