SANTA FE – Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham issued an executive order Tuesday to facilitate the speedy transit of emergency relief goods across New Mexico.
Executive Order 2020-017 requires the New Mexico Department of Transportation to issue special permits to allow heavier-than-normal vehicles to traverse the state when their loads consist primarily of relief supplies.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted supply chains around the world, making it harder in some cases for New Mexicans to obtain the food, medicine and clothing they need,” Gov. Lujan Grisham said. “This is one step we can take to move critical supplies to the places they are most needed during this crisis.”
The Emergency Expedited Special Permits, which will be good until July 1, will increase to 88,000 pounds the weight limit for trucks carrying COVID-19 related supplies. The previous limit was 86,400 pounds.
Per the order, relief supplies include food, beverages, medicine, medical supplies, clothing and building materials intended for temporary shelters.
To obtain the special permit, applicants will have to provide the Transportation Department with the vehicle’s weight, contents, destination and route.
All other truck traffic will follow the standard permit process and weight limits for delivery of other goods.
To obtain a permit click here or go to nmdot-permits@state.nm.us.