FMCSA narrows, extends fuel shortage emergency declaration in South Dakota

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Western Service Center declared Aug. 19 that an emergency still exists in South Dakota that warrants an exemption from certain regulations in 49 CFR Part 395 of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.

The declaration is in response to an ongoing drought and shortage of fuel products for use in fueling aircraft and emergency vehicles to combat wildfires.

Under terms of the declaration, motor carriers and drivers providing direct assistance related to the ongoing drought and shortage of gasoline, diesel, jet fuel and ethyl alcohol for use in fueling aircraft and emergency vehicles to combat wildfires in South Dakota have been granted relief from 49 CFR Part 395.3 (maximum driving time for property-carrying vehicles).

The waiver is effective through Sept. 19. A previous waiver in South Dakota, issued by Gov. Kristi Noem, waived 49 CFR Parts 390 to 399. That waiver expired on Aug. 16. 

[Related: Clarification of federal hours waivers when it comes to supply shortages]