Emergency transportation, agricultural products; establishment of weight loads, etc.

(1) The Governor may declare an emergency to exist when there is a breakdown in the normal public transportation facilities necessary in moving agricultural products, as defined in s. 604.60, grown in the state. The Department of Transportation is authorized during such emergency to establish such weight loads for hauling over the highways as circumstances demand. The Department of Transportation may issue, and any law enforcement officer authorized to enforce the traffic laws of this state must accept, electronic verification of permits during such an emergency. A permit issued pursuant to this section is valid for up to 60 days; however, the validity of the permit may not exceed the period of the declared state of emergency or any extension thereof. The Department of Transportation shall designate special highway routes, excluding the interstate highway system, to facilitate the trucking and render any other assistance needed to expedite moving the agricultural products.

(2) It is the intent of the Legislature in this chapter to supersede any existing laws when necessary to protect and save any agricultural products grown in the state and give authority for agencies to provide necessary temporary assistance requested during any such emergency. The department shall consult with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and stakeholders in the agricultural industry in implementing this section.