CCJ Daily Dispatch, Dec. 2: DOT readies for COVID vaccine distribution

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Trucking news and briefs for Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2020: 

DOT ready for COVID-19 vaccine distribution
The U.S. Department of Transportation today announced that all of its necessary regulatory measures have been taken for the safe, rapid transportation of the COVID-19 vaccine, including HOS waivers for those hauling vaccines.

An hours of service waiver for drivers providing direct emergency assistance during the pandemic has been in effect since March, and FMCSA clarified Tuesday that it will also cover drivers transporting the COVID-19 vaccine. The current waiver is set to expire Dec. 31. In addition to the vaccine, the suspension of Parts 390 through 399 of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations also covers:

  • Livestock and livestock feed
  • Medical supplies and equipment related to the testing, diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19
  • Supplies and equipment necessary for community safety, sanitation and prevention of community transmission of COVID-19, such as masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, soap and disinfectants
  • Food, paper products and other groceries for emergency restocking of distribution centers or stores

Several pharmaceuticals companies are in the process of getting a vaccine approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Once approval is given, distribution will begin. As reported on CCJ recently, the trucking industry will play no small part in that effort.

Group seeks nominees for outstanding female truckers
The Women in Trucking Association is seeking nominees for its second annual Female Driver of the Year award, which recognizes outstanding female truck drivers who lead the industry in safety standards while also promoting the image of trucking.

The application is open to any female driver who has safely driven at least one million consecutive accident-free miles. The driver must be nominated by the carrier where she is currently leased or employed and must have at least three years of experience with that company.

The finalists and overall winner will be recognized at the 2021 Salute to Women Behind the Wheel event at the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Kentucky, on Friday, March 26. The winner will be chosen based on her safety record, positive community contributions and impact on the public image of the trucking industry. She will receive a plaque, commemorative ring and more.

Nomination forms can be submitted here by Feb. 1, 2021. The award is sponsored by Walmart.