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Forsyth County commissioners oppose federal/state increases to truck weight and length, citing safety concerns

Forsyth County Board of Commissioners · December 4, 2025

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Summary

The board voted 6–1 to adopt a resolution opposing federal and state proposals to increase permissible truck weight and length, with commissioners citing federal preemption risks and concerns about jackknifing and road safety.

The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners on Dec. 4, 2025, approved a resolution opposing federal and state legislation that would allow heavier and longer trucks on interstate, state and local roads. The motion carried 6–1.

One commissioner questioned how the issue arose and said they were uneasy about perceived retailer lobbying behind the proposal. Commissioners who supported the resolution cited two principal reasons: federal preemption (if Congress or a federal agency authorizes larger vehicles, state restrictions would be overridden) and safety risks on local roads, including increased jackknifing risk if trailers and hitches are lengthened.

The discussion referenced existing North Carolina practice that allows double‑trailer combinations in limited contexts and emphasized the board’s precautionary stance toward any change that could increase risks on county roads. After debate, the resolution passed 6–1.