Livestock groups this week applauded the introduction of legislation that would provide livestock haulers flexibility and critical relief from hours-of-service rules.
Senator Deb Fischer, a Nebraska Republican, introduced the Haulers of Agriculture and Livestock Safety, or HAULS Act. The legislation would add a 150 air-mile exemption to hours of service regulations to the backend of hauls for those transporting livestock or agricultural commodities. The bill also eliminates the seasonal harvest requirements for the agriculture hours-of-service exemption, making the exemption available year-round in all states.
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) applauded the introduction of legislation. NCBA President Marty Smith said, “For years livestock haulers and producers were unduly burdened with hours-of-service regulations that do not take into account the unique difficulties that these drivers face every day. The COVID-19 pandemic has only further illustrated how important it is to allow these drivers to quickly and safely reach their destinations, and in turn keep grocery store shelves stocked with beef.”
Jon Samson, Executive Director of the Agricultural and Food Transporters Conference says, “This language provides the ag community with continued flexibility during the busiest times of the year, while expanding uniformity and clarity for the transportation of our nation’s ag products.”
American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duval stated, “The HAULS Act modernizes trucking regulations to meet the needs of our members,” adding, “I applaud Senator Fischer for her leadership on this important issue.”