The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) originally exempted livestock haulers from hours-of-service rules in March 2020 as a result of the pandemic.
FMCSA has extended the exemption continuously since then, with the most recent exemption through Aug. 31. Under the declaration, a driver must still receive a minimum of 10 hours of off-duty rest before returning to service. The exemption is limited to those who are transporting livestock and livestock feed; medical supplies, equipment, vaccines and other items related to COVID-19; and food, paper products and groceries for stores or distribution centers.
