HOS enforcement begins

Transportation Secretary Norman Y. Mineta notified state officials March 4 to begin enforcement of the new hours-of-service rules while DOT continues to monitor feedback from the nation’s truckers to decide what additional education is needed.

Anecdotal reports show the new HOS rules have added efficiency within the supply chain by encouraging shippers to load cargo more quickly, FMCSA Administrator Annette Sandberg said.

"The steps we have taken to make sure drivers know about the changes and follow them are paying dividends," she added. "Carriers and drivers are learning about the new hours-of-service rules and want to comply with the changes."

Secretary Mineta said, “We finally close the book on World War II-era rules that were too restrictive of drive times and too tolerant of dangerously long workdays. The new rules will help drivers earn a good living without having to put their lives on the line.”