I’m Glad to be back from my trip to the OTA conference. Being on the Board of Directors and a member of the Oregon Trucking Association, I was able to talk with one of the head honcho’s of the FMCSA. They are taking comments currently on the HOS and ELD’s.
I was able to discuss the half hour break required as well as some issues I have with yard movements while the driver is clearly not working.
On both subjects, I believe I made some progress. One of the main sponsors of the convention was EROAD. So, I was able to get in their ear as well.
One plan I’m working hard with the FMCSA is to allow a half hour of on duty not driving to accommodate the need for a half hour break. This would mean (if passed) that you could be on duty not driving while loading or unloading for a half hour or longer and no longer need an additional break.
I will keep you posted.
In addition, I have sent Ryan Hutchens to Washington DC to meet with some ATA people and hopefully some federal representatives to work on behalf of trucking companies back here in Oregon. Hopefully, Ryan can teach them a thing or two.