Relating to the operation of vehicles transporting steel; authorizing a fee.

HB 3331 creates a new permit system for trucks transporting steel between production sites and first marketing locations. Trucking companies must pay a $1,200 annual fee to operate vehicles with six axles (equipped with safety systems) at up to 90,000 pounds gross weight, exceeding standard axle weight limits under specific spacing conditions. The permit allows temporary weight exemptions for two-axle groups (max 36,500 lbs) and three-axle groups (max 42,500 lbs) when measured axle spacing meets requirements. This directly affects steel transport companies operating within Texas, adding a regulatory fee and permitting process for their heavy-haul operations.