A new Illinois law updating decades-old vehicle regulations for modern farm equipment will take effect January 1st. Governor JB Pritzker signed Senate Bill 3208, which changes the Illinois Vehicle Code's definition of "implements of husbandry" to account for larger and heavier equipment now commonly used by farmers. The previous law generally excluded equipment weighing more than 36,000 pounds. The new law increases the threshold for farm wagons, wagon trailers and similar equipment to 44,000 pounds on two or more axles, with no more than 24,000 pounds on a single axle. Single-axle grain carts will also be considered implements of husbandry and will not be subject to the exemption weight limit. The designation is important because implements of husbandry receive certain exemptions from vehicle registration and other roadway requirements. Illinois Farm Bureau Director of State Legislation Chris Davis said the changes will benefit farmers, although they will not take effect in time for this fall's harvest. State Senator Patrick Joyce and State Representative Lawrence Walsh Jr. were the legislation's chief sponsors.