FMSCA set to propose new HOS rule for truckers

WASHINGTON, D.C. –The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is planning to publish a new proposed rulemaking for U.S. trucking hours of service (HOS) in the Federal Register Monday.

FMCSA officials said the comment period for the rule making will end March 10. The existing rules, implemented Jan. 4, 2004, will remain in effect until Sept. 30 at the latest, officials said.

“We are moving aggressively to make sure we have the best regulations in place to ensure truck driver health, save lives and keep the American economy moving safely on the nation’s highways,” FMCSA Administrator Annette Sandberg said in a public statement.

The rules implemented Jan. 4, 2004 expanded driving time from 10 to 11 hours, but reduced on-duty hours from 15 to 14. The new rules also made it impossible for drivers to turn the clock off during meal and fuel breaks, as well as loading and unloading.

The rules were overturned by a U.S. Court of Appeals after a public interest group filed a lawsuit claiming the FMCSA failed to consider their impact on the health of drivers in creating the new rules.

A scientific review of the physical effects on drivers operating commercial vehicles under the new HOS is currently underway, FMCSA officials said yesterday.