Chairperson Petersen opened the Hearing on HB2604. Adam Siebers, Staff Revisor gave an explanation of the bill. (Attachment 1) There were no questions.

Technical Trooper Nickolas Wright (KHP) testified in support of HB2604. (Attachment 2) He stated that HB2604 revised the definition of a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) as it pertains to commercial driver's license (CDL) law.  Kansas CDL law currently conflicts with federal regulations, and this bill would resolve that conflict. The lack of uniformity between Kansas law and federal regulations imposes a burden on operators and motor carriers. By revising the definition of a CMV to align with federal regulations, KHP believes HB2604 will provide uniform enforcement across interstate trucking operations and increase public safety by ensuring that CMV operators are properly qualified and licensed. 

He took questions from committee members.

Zach Dennney of KDOR presented his proponent testimony. (Attachment 3) He said the purpose of this bill is to align Kansas law with federal commercial driver's license (CDL) regulations and with the statutes of our neighboring states. Kansas law currently includes only vehicles with a weight rating above 26,000 pounds, Under federal law and the laws of Missouri and Nebraska a commercial motor vehicle includes vehicles with a weight rating above 26,000 pounds as well as vehicles that actually weight more than 26,000 pounds. KDOR introduced this bill to ensure Kansas statutes mirror federal regulations and to ensure that individuals hauling dangerously heavy loads are properly licensed and trained to do so.

He answered questions from the committee. Charles Bradley of KDOR who was in the audience also provided some information in answers to committee questions.

Written only, proponent testimony was submitted by:

Mike Hoeme, Director of Transportation on behalf of the staff of the Kansas Corporation Commission. (Attachment 4)

Chairperson Petersen closed the Hearing on HB2604.