The comment period is underway for the U.S. Department of Transportation changes to hours-of-service regulations. They’re proposing more flexibility for livestock haulers including expanding the short-haul exemption from 12 hours on-duty to 14 hours. And extending the 14-hour on-duty limitation by up to two hours in adverse driving conditions. However, some livestock groups are still asking for an ag exemption. South Dakota Senator John Thune says that may be a tough lift.

Thune says the Hours of Service and Electronic Logging Devices changes allow more humane handling and transportation of livestock and are a step in the right direction.

DOT is also revising the mandatory 30-minute break for drivers after 8 hours of continuous driving. Plus, reinstating the option for splitting the required 10 hour off-duty rest break for drivers operating trucks with sleeping areas.