(NASHVILLE) — State Representative Andrew Farmer (R-Sevierville) today introduced legislation designed to cut costs on permit fees for Tennessee’s farmers.
House Bill 1796 exempts operators of farm trucks weighing more than 9,000 pounds from obtaining farm or other seasonal operating permits when their vehicle is used to move horticultural, agricultural, and dairy products or livestock from the point of production to the marketplace, or if their vehicle is operated as a farm truck.
Currently in Tennessee, permit fees by weight class range anywhere from just under $3.00 for vehicles weighing 16,000 lbs. up to $115.50 for those weighing 80,000 lbs.
“Members of our local farming community are the backbone of our state,” said Representative Farmer. “I believe we must support them by reducing unnecessary fees so that they can truly reap all the rewards of their diligent work. It is an honor for me to sponsor this legislation that will enable these men and women to save some extra money that they can use elsewhere.”
The measure is expected to be heard by members of the House Transportation Subcommittee on Wednesday, February 14, 2018.
Additional information about House Bill 1796 can be found by clicking here.
Andrew Farmer serves as the Chairman of the House Civil Justice Committee. He is also a member of the House Civil Justice Subcommittee, House Criminal Justice Committee and House Calendar & Rules Committee. Farmer lives in Sevierville and represents House District 17, which includes part of Jefferson and Sevier Counties. He can be reached by email at: Rep.Andrew.Farmer@capitol.tn.gov or by calling (615) 741-4419.