Trucking news and briefs for Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2022:
In response to record flooding in Eastern Kentucky last week, Kentucky Transportation Secretary Jim Gray issued an order to exempt some truckers from hours of service regulations.
The order applies to commercial vehicles actively engaged in relief efforts. It exempts drivers from limits on hours of driving and having to stop at weigh stations if they are delivering fuel and other needed supplies or engaged in debris removal and restoration of power. It also exempts the vehicles from fees for overweight/over-dimensional permits.
Gray's order follows a state of emergency declared by Gov. Andy Beshear on Thursday, July 28.
The exemptions will remain in effect through 12:01 a.m. EDT on Aug. 15.
To ensure the safety of the traveling public, contracted drivers must comply with safety requirements and have a copy of the order in their vehicles.
Shelli Conaway-Waugh, CEO of nonprofit Trucks with Room to Spare, said that with more rains expected in the affected Kentucky region, her organization could use extra help, including drivers to deliver aid.
