Whenever used in this chapter, unless a different meaning clearly appears in the context, the following terms shall be given the following respective meanings:

1. (1) COMMERCE. a. Any trade, traffic, or transportation within the jurisdiction of the United States between a place in a state and a place outside of the state, including a place outside of the United States.
2. b. For the purpose of this chapter, commerce also includes any trade, traffic, or transportation beginning and ending within the boundaries of this state.

3. (2) COMMERCIAL MOTOR VEHICLE. Any self-propelled or towed vehicle used on the highways in commerce to transport passengers or property if the vehicle meets any of the following:

   1. a. It has a gross weight rating or gross combination weight of more than 10,000 pounds, whether operated interstate or intrastate.
   2. b. It is designed to transport more than 15 passengers, including the driver, regardless of weight.
   3. c. It is used to transport hazardous materials in a quantity requiring placards under regulation of the U.S. Department of Transportation.
4. (3) DEPARTMENT. The Alabama Department of Public Safety.
5. (4) DIRECTOR. The Director of the Alabama Department of Public Safety.

(Act 98-493, p. 952, §1; Act 99-203, p. 261, §1.)