Regulatory Update – Nov. 16, 2018

Update on Relevant U.S. Regulations

PHMSA Responds to Multiple Petitions for Regulatory Change
On Nov. 7, 2018, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) published a notice of rulemaking that makes changes to regulations in response to 19 petitions received from industry. The intent of these changes is to clarify, streamline or provide relief from various regulatory requirements. These changes are effective Dec. 7.

PHMSA Publishes Updates on Special Permits
Also on Nov. 7, 2018, PHMSA published updates on special permit applications:
List of Applications for Special Permits – Comments are due by Dec. 7.
List of Applications for Modification of Special Permits – Comments are due by Nov. 23.
Notice of Actions on Special Permit Applications – Comments are due by Nov. 23.

Update on Exemptions

FMCSA Amends NTTC and MMTA 30-Mintute Rest Break Exemption
On Nov. 9, 2018, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) amended a previously granted exemption request from the National Tank Truck Carriers (NTTC) and the Massachusetts Motor Transport Association (MMTA). When FMCSA granted the exemption from the 30-minute rest break requirement for transport of specified fuels, it failed to include propane gas. The amendment adds propane gas to list of fuels that qualify for the exception.

CVSA Active Exemption Tracker
CVSA maintains a list of active exemptions issued by FMCSA. Members can access the document by logging into their CVSA member portal and clicking on the “Exemptions” tab at the top of the page.

Other Items of Interest

FMCSA Updates Personal Conveyance FAQ
On Nov. 6, 2018, FMCSA updated the personal conveyance webpage to include frequently asked questions (FAQ). The FAQ seeks to provide further clarity on when a driver can appropriately utilize personal conveyance