Metro East Sun

U.S. Representatives Mike Bost and Mike Collins, supported by 30 House colleagues, have addressed a letter to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The letter calls for relief from Hours of Service (HOS) regulations for truck drivers before natural disasters and emergencies occur. The representatives advocate for an internal plan that provides clear and consistent HOS exemptions to ensure uninterrupted fuel and supply delivery during emergencies.

Representative Bost emphasized the importance of ready access to fuel in emergencies, stating, “When communities are staring down the threat of a dangerous emergency, the last thing they should have to worry about is ready access to fuel for their homes and vehicles.” He noted his personal experience with the trucking industry, highlighting how federal delays can impede truckers' efforts during critical times. Bost believes this policy change will enhance safety and expedite recovery during severe weather events and supply chain disruptions.

Representative Collins also expressed support for the initiative, saying, “When disaster strikes, our fueling stations need to be supplied and ready to provide first responders and everyone in the impacted zone with the power they need to recover and rebuild.” He supports reducing government bureaucracy to facilitate common-sense solutions in disaster response.

Rob Underwood, President of Energy Marketers of America, shared that over 300 energy marketers attended a recent conference in Washington D.C., emphasizing the need for lawmakers to urge FMCSA towards establishing policies ensuring timely HOS relief during emergencies. "We stand ready to collaborate with the agency to develop this critical framework for disaster response and recovery," he stated.

Currently, FMCSA has authority under federal law to issue emergency declarations; however, these are often granted post-disaster. This can lead to confusion among multi-state fuel suppliers and delay essential deliveries. The letter urges FMCSA to provide consistent regulatory relief in advance when severe weather or emergencies are predicted. This would enable better preparation by fuel marketers and truck drivers without facing unnecessary regulatory hurdles.

Read the full letter here.