Autumn is a season full of changes, and it’s bringing new rules and advance notices of proposed rulemakings to the Federal Register. Here’s what the FMCSA has released for the month of September.
Notices of Proposed Rulemakings
The FMCSA is looking for your comments on two new proposed rulemakings.
Electronic Logging Device Revisions
The FMCSA is looking for public feedback on how to make it easier to understand and comply with the current electronic logging devices (ELDs) standards.
The agency is specifically looking for comments on five areas they are considering making changes to:
- How applicable ELDs are to engines from the year 2000 and earlier
- How to address ELD malfunctions
- The process for removing ELD products from FMCSA’s list of certified devices
- ELD technical specifications
- ELD certification
If your drivers are required to use an ELD, now is the time to make your voice heard on these topics. You can leave your comments on these ideas through Tuesday, November 15, 2022.
The official proposed rulemaking is available here.
Extension to Comment Period on Medical Examiner’s Handbook Updates
Last month on the blog we shared the draft of the Medical Examiner’s Handbook (MEH), which includes updates to the Medical Advisory Criteria published in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), was newly available.
The new draft includes improved guidance to help medical examiners ensure that truck drivers are in good health and do not have any medical problems that may interfere with their ability to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle.
The agency has extended the deadline for comment submissions to Monday, October 31, 2022. You’re invited to take a look at the draft and leave your comments here.
Final Rulings
Here’s an update on two new rulings that have made their way through the Federal Register.
Amended Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) Fees
As noted in the FMCSA final ruling on September 1, the fees for the UCR plan and agreement for the 2023 registration year will be lower than the fees were in 2022.
The reduction in annual registration fees would be between $18 and $17,688 per business, depending on the number of vehicles they own or operate.
You can leave your comments on this change here.
Considering the Need for COVID-19 Relief Extension
The FMCSA extended its COVID-19 Emergency Declaration on August 31, 2022 to continue to provide relief to motor carriers involved in restoration efforts. The extension is set to expire on October 15, 2022.
The agency accepted comments from motor carriers on if they are relying on the emergency declaration to deliver essential goods and services. They also asked if it has impacted their safety in any way. The comment period for this request has closed.
If you’d like to stay on top of new rules and advance notices of proposed rulemakings from the FMCSA, you can check out the full Significant Rulemaking Report here.
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