December 2, 2020
FMCSA Extends HOS Waiver Through February 2021
Emergency Declaration Extended and Expanded
Yesterday, FMCSA expanded and extended the Emergency Declaration that was set to expire on December 31. This expanded declaration became effective at 12:00 A.M. December 1 and expires on February 28, 2021. 

As with previous declarations, emergency regulatory relief is provided from parts 390 through 399 of the FMCSRs, including the hours-of-service regulations. The primary change with this current declaration is the inclusion of vaccine transportation.

The expanded declaration published yesterday is limited to the transportation of:
  1. Livestock and livestock feed;
  2. Medical supplies and equipment related to the testing, diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19;
  3. *NEW*- Vaccines, constituent products, and medical supplies and equipment including ancillary supplies/kits for the administration of vaccines, related to the prevention of COVID-19;
  4. Supplies and equipment necessary for community safety, sanitation, and prevention of community transmission of COVID-19 such as masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, soap and disinfectants, and;
  5. Food, paper products and other groceries for emergency restocking of distribution centers or stores.

You can review the applicability, restrictions, and limitations included in the waiver on FMCSA's website. 
CDC Updates Guidance for Long-Haul Truck Drivers
Separately, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has provided updates to its coronavirus-related recommendations for long-haul truck drivers. Beyond the basics for protecting oneself and others, the CDC explains that mental health and emotional well-being, important parts of worker safety and health, have been challenged by the pandemic. To address heightened stress, anxiety, or depression, the CDC recommends paying attention to these feelings in yourself and others and being aware of resources available to manage them. You can read more on the CDC's website.