Agencies extend COVID-19 relief measures
As the pandemic drags on, DOT offers continued relief:
CDL-related — FMCSA extended three waivers affecting states, CDL holders, CLP holders, and interstate drivers operating CMVs and certain third-party CDL skills test examiners. All three waivers expire February 28 or upon revocation of the national emergency.
- SOURCES: Waiver in Response to the COVID-19 National Emergency –For States, CDL Holders, CLP Holders, and Interstate Drivers Operating Commercial Motor Vehicles; FMCSA grant of waiver – 12/15/2020
- Two-Month Waiver in Response to the COVID-19 Emergency –For States and CLP Holders Operating Commercial Motor Vehicles; FMCSA grant of waiver – 12/15/2020
- Waiver for States Concerning Third Party CDL Skills Test Examiners In Response to the COVID-19 Emergency; FMCSA grant of waiver – 12/15/2020
Cross-border guidance — FMCSA issued guidance on waivers/enforcement of cross-border transportation.
- SOURCE: FMCSA Guidance on Cross-Border Transportation and Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19); FMCSA guidance – 12/15/2020
State agencies — FMCSA extended a waiver concerning enforcement discretion for states in 49 CFR 383 and 384. New deadlines are specified in the waiver.
- SOURCE: Notice of enforcement discretion determination concerning certain requirements for states in 49 CFR Parts 383 and 384; FMCSA notice – 12/15/2020
Hand sanitizer — PHMSA reinstated and extended through March 31 the enforcement discretion notice to those who offer or transport hand sanitizers manufactured and packaged prior to Oct. 31, 2020.
- SOURCE: Notice of reinstatement and extension of enforcement policy regarding hand sanitizers; PHMSA memo from Schoonover – 12/7/2020
Drug & alcohol testing — DOT extended an enforcement discretion statement through June 30 specific to performing remote evaluations by substance abuse professionals (SAPs) and their re-qualification timelines.
- SOURCE: DOT COVID-19 Drug & Alcohol Testing Statement of Enforcement Discretion for Substance Abuse Professionals and Service Agents; ODAPC Guidance Document #: ODAPC GEN07 – 12/9/2020