COVID-19 has influenced everyone, just in different ways. In the trucking industry, the effects have been no different. The FMCSA has decided to extend the emergency regulatory waivers to keep goods and supplies moving across America. These waivers will allow truck drivers to exceed their normal maximum hours of service limits. Currently, the waiver has been extended through August 31st.
What is Included in the Waiver?
According to the FMCSA agency, “FMCSA is continuing the exemption and associated regulatory relief because the presidentially declared emergency remains in place, persistent issues arising out of COVID-19 continue to affect the U.S., including impacts on supply chains, and nationwide reporting continues to demonstrate substantial ongoing use of the regulatory relief.”
In the beginning, the extension was until May 31st and now has expanded. This extension has been modified to include transportation of the following:
Livestock and livestock feed
Medical supplies and equipment for diagnosis, treatment, and testing of COVID-19
Vaccines, basic products, and medical supplies and equipment. This can include ancillary supplies/kits for giving vaccines related to COVID-19 prevention
Supplies and equipment needed for safety measures, sanitation, and prevention of transmission of COVID-19, including masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, soap, and disinfectants
Paper products, food, and other groceries for emergency restocking of stores and distribution centers
Gasoline, diesel, diesel exhaust fluid, and jet fuel
The FMCSA agency also states that the amended emergency declaration focused on certain fuel needs from the ongoing emergency and to help widen fuel shipments. The agency states, “FMCSA has determined that currently the production and transport of these fuels is significantly impacted by the COVID-19 national emergency, so no demonstration is required.”
So, while the FCMSA has extended this waiver, this does not mean truck drivers do not have to practice safe driving. While your service hours can be extended due to the waiver, you will need to make a conscious decision when you get behind the wheel. Have you gotten enough sleep? Do you feel fully rested and safe to drive? When you get behind the wheel, are you putting yourself or others in danger? All these questions are important to ask yourself before you turn the key.
Be careful, truck drivers, and thank you for your hard work and dedication.