Paperless Log Test Deadline Extended

The Federal Highway Administration extended the deadline to participate in its paperless logs pilot program for a second time.

The administration said 17 motor carriers want to join the program but did not have the computer systems and software ready by the application deadline of June 30. FHWA said two carriers now have the software in place and that others will be coming on line soon.

The lone volunteer for the pilot so far is Werner Enterprises of Omaha, Neb. The test allows trucking companies to use global positioning satellites to track and record drivers’ hours of service instead of paper logs.

Carriers already can use on-board recorders for hours-of-service compliance under a 1988 law, but FHWA instituted the pilot program to test broadening the regulation, which it says is becoming obsolete due to advances in technology.

The original deadline to participate was Oct. 5, 1998. When no motor carriers besides Werner came forward, the deadline was extended to June. The new deadline is Dec. 31.

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