Hours-of-Service Exemption Extended Again for Livestock Haulers

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has announced the extension of the current hours-of-service (HOS) exemption for livestock and livestock feed haulers. Between COVID-19 and continuing supply chain concerns, this exemption has continued to be an important tool for livestock haulers and producers. NCBA has continued to remind FMCSA that livestock haulers face unique challenges that are different from other commercial truck drivers on the road, and therefore they need additional flexibility.

NCBA says the HOS emergency declaration provides additional flexibility for livestock haulers to complete their crucial trips. This ensures that haulers do not have to stop for 10 consecutive hours fully loaded with cattle if they hit their HOS cap and are just a few miles down the road from their destination. Completing these deliveries in a timely manner is paramount for animal welfare, while also maintaining driver safety and the safety of others sharing the road.

The new HOS extension runs through Oct. 15, 2022.

Source: NCBA