Congressional Legislation on 34 Hour Restart, Speed Limiters…

The United States senate has passed a fiscal 2017 transportation funding bill that could redefine some important aspects of Hours of Service and equipment regulations. These include weekly hours worked prior to required rest breaks, DOT rules on implementing speed limiters nationwide, and revised government spending on transportation infrastructure.

In addition, the bill prevents state governments from modifying break and rest periods related to Hours of Service regulations for the upcoming year, and upholds the delay of safety fitness determinations by the FMCSA. The House Appropriations Committee has shut down an amendment proposed by Representative David Price (D-N.C.). The vote to pass the bill into law is expected shortly after the Memorial Day recess. Highlights of the bill include:

• Weekly hours allowed prior to required rest break: 73
• DOT to issue speed limiter final rule within six months
• Extended prohibition of modifications to the 34-hour restart
• New infrastructure development and improvement grants
• Pipeline network funding and Amtrak funding

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