December 7 is the deadline for Electronic Logging Device and Hours of Service rules to go into effect. Earlier the livestock industry was granted an extension from those rules by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. South Dakota Stockgrowers Association President Gary Deering says they’d like legislation passed to correct that problem but in the near term want at least another extension.
He says livestock haulers have the safest road record and should be given a special exemption from those federal regulations.
Deering says the ELD and Hours of Service rules become a health issue for livestock and haulers and drivers aren’t in a position to just stop on a dime and rest.
Deering says the FMCSA along with the current administration must take a serious look at this issue and work with transporters and producers to find a permanent working solution.
