Regulatory Update – Feb. 19, 2021

February 19, 2021

Update on Relevant U.S. Regulations

FMCSA Seeks Input on Agency Performance
On Feb. 12, 2021, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) published a notice and request for comments on the agency’s request to extend approval from the Office of Management and Budget to conduct a generic information collection request (ICR) to collect qualitative feedback on the agency’s service delivery. Comments are due by April 13.

FMCSA Requests Comments on Registration of Foreign Motor Carriers ICR
On Feb. 12, 2021, FMCSA published a notice and request for comments on an ICR that will allow the agency to collect the necessary information to register Mexico-based carriers that intend to operate within states along the U.S.-Mexico border or within the designated commercial zones. Comments are due by April 13.

PHMSA Publishes Updates on Special Permits
On Feb. 10, 2021, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) published updates on special permit applications:

Update on Exemptions

CVSA Active Exemption Tracker
CVSA maintains a list of active exemptions issued by FMCSA. The exemption tracker can be found at www.cvsa.org under the “Inspections” tab at the top of the page.

Other Items of Interest

FMCSA Extends COVID-19 Emergency Declaration
On Feb. 17, 2021, FMCSA extended the emergency declaration exempting commercial motor vehicle drivers who are transporting supplies directly related to the COVID-19 pandemic from Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations Parts 390-399. The exemption specifically applies to drivers transporting livestock, livestock feed, vaccines and related medical supplies and equipment, supplies and equipment for community safety and sanitation, and paper products and supplies for restocking grocery stores and distribution centers. The emergency declaration expires on May 31.