The U.S. Department of Transportation\u2019s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) today announced new regulatory guidance clarifying the longstanding 150 air-miles hours-of-service agricultural commodity exemption as well as providing additional explanatory detail of the \u201cpersonal conveyance\u201d provision.<\/p>\n
The regulatory guidance gives drivers a way to deal with a side effect of the electronic logging device mandate \u2013 finding a safe place to park for the night.<\/p>\n
\u201cDue to input from commercial vehicle stakeholders and the public, the Department has taken steps to provide greater clarity and flexibility regarding the intent and effect of these regulations, for the agricultural and other sectors,\u201d said U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao.<\/p>\n
FMCSA published Federal Register notices proposing regulatory guidance for the transportation of agricultural commodities and the use of personal conveyance in December, 2017 and requested public comment. FMCSA is providing clarity on the use of the agricultural exemption and personal conveyance to both industry and law enforcement along with providing as much flexibility as possible for the industry, while maintaining safety.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are dedicated to finding effective solutions to challenges, exploring new opportunities for innovation and constantly seeking ways to improve,\u201d said FMCSA Administrator Raymond P. Martinez.<\/p>\n
In all, nearly 850 public comments were submitted to the Federal Register dockets on the proposed guidance pertaining to the transportation of agricultural commodities as well as on the personal conveyance provision.<\/p>\n
The new regulatory guidance is developed within a clear, questions-and-answers format and explains the 150 air-mile radius agricultural commodity exemption and how the \u201csource\u201d of the commodity is determined.\u00a0 For a copy of this guidance, see: https:\/\/www.fmcsa.dot.gov\/ag-commodity-guidance<\/a><\/p>\n Likewise, the new regulatory guidance outlines \u2013 and includes numerous examples \u2013 under what circumstances a commercial motor vehicle driver may operate the truck or bus for personal conveyance.\u00a0 For a copy of this guidance, see: https:\/\/www.fmcsa.dot.gov\/personal-conveyance-guidance<\/a><\/p>\n