A weighty question: bigger trucks on the road good or bad?

It is a debate that has become an annual rite amongst Minnesota’s transportation lawmakers: should the state make allowances for heavier trucks to traverse its roads?

Proponents say higher limits would mean fewer big trucks on the state’s roads, saving money, fuel and time. Opponents, though, say any benefit is outweighed by increased wear and tear on roads and bridges.

Approved Wednesday by the House Transportation and Regional Governance Policy Committee, HF1358 would create a special permit that increases weight limits for 6- or 7-axle trucks hauling construction materials. Sponsored by Rep. Dave Baker (R-Willmar), the bill now goes to the House Transportation Finance Committee.

Sen. Torrey Westrom (R-Elbow Lake) sponsors a companion, SF1063, which has been referred to the Senate Transportation Finance and Policy Committee.

John Barnhoft, CEO of Buffalo Ridge Concrete and president of the Aggregate and Ready Mix Association of Minnesota, said neighboring states have higher truck weight limits. That leaves businesses like his and others in the industry at a competitive disadvantage.

He also noted that traffic congestion in the Twin Cities metropolitan area is projected to worsen, something that increasing truck weights — and decreasing the number of trucks on the road hauling construction materials — could help alleviate.

“By increasing weights and taking trucks off the roads, you’ll help the gridlock,” Barnhoft said.

The bill proposes an overweight permit fee of $300 for 6-axle vehicles and $500 for 7-axle vehicles. It defines construction materials to include highway and building construction, as well as demolition materials.

The permit would prohibit operating overweight trucks on interstate highways, a requirement under federal law.

Rep. Frank Hornstein (DFL-Mpls) said he has reservations with raising weight limits until the Legislature can agree on a comprehensive, long-term transportation plan that helps the state fund badly needed road and bridge maintenance.

“I think it’s very premature,” he said.