States Waive Some HOS Rules for Trucks in Storm-Damaged Areas

Governors in 10 states hard hit by Hurricane Irene and Missouri River flooding have temporarily waived hours-of-service rules — and in some cases fuel taxes and special size and weight permits — for trucks hauling relief supplies.

Those affected by the hurricane are Delaware, Indiana, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Vermont and Virginia. Iowa has been hit by flooding along the Missouri River.

The HOS rule is waived nationwide for relief freight heading to affected states, with some stipulations. New Jersey, for example, waived the hours rule only for trucks hauling food, fuel and water, or heading to the state to help with utility repair.

Also, oversize, overweight and other special permits are waived in some states but not in others. And only three states — Indiana, New York and Vermont — waived state fuel taxes for trucks hauling relief supplies.

Carriers can check individual state waivers by clicking here. (American Trucking Associations’ Truckline.com website.)