According to today's USDA Grain Transportation Report, on May 5, citing a shortened planting season and a regional fuel shortage, the Governors of Nebraska and North Dakota issued executive orders waiving hours-of-service (HOS) regulations for drivers hauling fuel and fertilizer. Nebraska’s waiver (effective until June 4) extends drivers’ work hours to haul diesel, biodiesel, gasoline or gasoline blends, fuel oil, ethanol, and propane.
North Dakota’s waiver (effective for 30 days) waives HOS regulations for truckers hauling dry and liquid fertilizer, anhydrous ammonia, pesticides, and seeds.
Both orders stipulate that a motor carrier should not allow an ill or fatigued driver to operate a motor vehicle.
Likewise, a driver who notifies a motor carrier that he or she needs immediate rest must be given at least 10 consecutive off-duty hours before returning to drive.