Wisconsin Ag Connection - Farm Bureau Chief Urges Farmers to Know Facts on IoH Law

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Farm Bureau Chief Urges Farmers to Know Facts on IoH Law
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 09/15/2014

The upcoming harvest season may provide the best test yet on the effectiveness of Wisconsin's new Implements of Husbandry law. The policy establishes a new class of vehicles on state roads called Agricultural Commercial Motor Vehicles, or 'Ag CMVs,' which can now operate at weight limits 15-percent higher than previously allowed unless seasonal or other special weight postings apply.

Wisconsin Farm Bureau President Jim Holte said in an editorial last week that it's critical that farmers and custom operators talk with local officials now about how the new law is enforced--especially if they are not clear about all of its provisions.

"Don't be lulled into thinking this issue is over because the law was enacted last spring," Holte said. "Local ordinances and resolutions concerning weight limits need to be in place by January 15 in order for them to be in effect for next year's growing season. Right now your town and county officials are making decisions about how this law impacts your farm in 2015."

He recommends that farmers and operators do their research to find out what their machinery and vehicle combinations weigh. Holte said it only takes a handful of phone calls on a topic for a town or county official's ears to perk up.

"So call them. Invite them to a Farm Bureau meeting, or organize Farm Bureau members to attend a town or county meeting (and let them know you're coming)," he advised. "It's imperative that you have a dialogue about the options available to them and how your farm uses roadways to move farm machinery."

Lawmakers who drafted the new policy say it delays enforcement of size and weight limitations by state patrol officers until January 15, 2015.

Meanwhile, the no-fee permitting provisions, weight limitations and exemptions from weight limitations will sunset in January 2020 in order to force the legislature to review the law within five years.

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