Farm state senators have introduced the Transporting Livestock Across America Safety Act. The legislation exempts haulers of livestock from the federal hours of service regulations within 300 miles of their origin and allows more flexibility in driving schedules. South Dakota Stockgrowers Association President Gary Deering says his group backs the bill.

He says the improvement to the electronic logging device rules contained in the legislation helps ensure the welfare of animals are protected when they’re transported.

Deering is hoping they’ll be able to get a companion measure in the House.

Livestock haulers are currently under a temporary exemption from the ELD rule, but Deering says a permanent solution is needed.