FMCSA Renews Hours‑of‑Service Exemption for Railroads, Limiting Unplanned Event Use

What Changed in the Exemption

FMCSA has granted a modified renewal of the hours‑of‑service exemption for the Association of American Railroads and the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association. The exemption lifts the 14‑hour driving limit and the 60‑hour/70‑hour on‑duty limits for covered railroad drivers. The agency added restrictions on the types of unplanned events that may trigger the exemption and required new reporting procedures.

Who Is Affected

The exemption applies only to drivers operating for motor carriers listed in the appendix of the decision. It covers railroads that are members of the two associations. Carriers that do not appear in the appendix are not eligible to use the exemption.

What Carriers Should Check

Carriers should verify whether their drivers are listed in the appendix and whether they are operating under the exemption. They should review the new reporting requirements and ensure that any unplanned events that trigger the exemption are documented as specified. Carriers should also confirm that the exemption does not conflict with any other regulatory obligations.

What Remains Unclear

The notice does not detail the exact categories of unplanned events that are permissible under the modified exemption, nor does it specify the reporting timeline or format. Carriers should contact FMCSA or consult the full decision for guidance and should monitor future updates for clarification.