Record Fuel Prices Prompt Hours-of-Service Relief for Truckers
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has issued a 90-day hours-of-service waiver for qualified truck drivers hauling gasoline and diesel, citing concerns about fuel supply disruptions and increased demand. The temporary relief allows covered drivers to operate for up to 16 hours within a 24-hour period, compared with the standard 14-hour on-duty window.
Waiver runs through Dec. 16
FMCSA issued the temporary waiver on Sept. 16. It applies to eligible carriers and drivers transporting gasoline and diesel and is scheduled to remain in effect through Dec. 16.
The agency said the action is intended to respond to global supply disruptions, anticipated increases in gasoline and diesel demand during the late summer and fall, and potential impacts on fuel costs and the broader supply chain.
Covered drivers must continue to meet applicable rest requirements. The waiver provides additional operating flexibility but does not eliminate other federal requirements that apply to fuel transportation.
Fuel prices reach record levels
The waiver comes as diesel prices reach record highs across the United States. National average diesel prices cited in reports around the time of the announcement ranged from approximately $6.23 to $6.40 per gallon, compared with about $3.74 per gallon a year earlier.
Gasoline prices also climbed sharply, with national averages reported between $4.31 and $4.44 per gallon. The higher costs have increased operating expenses for trucking companies and raised concerns about the potential effect on the movement of food, consumer goods and other freight.
Industry impact
Federal officials said the additional hours are intended to help keep gasoline and diesel moving as fuel demand increases and global energy markets face ongoing disruptions. The waiver is designed to reduce the risk of localized shortages and supply-chain interruptions, although its effect on retail fuel prices will depend on broader market conditions.
