Following passage by the U.S. House and Senata, President Obama recently signed off on H.R. 4348, Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century (MAP-21). The bill includes reauthorization of surface transportation programs, an extension of reduced student loan rates and a reauthorization of the flood insurance program.
Also included in the bill are exemptions for farmers and covered farm vehicles from several federal regulations, including the exemption of farm trucks from hours-of-service rules as well as other regulations regarding drug testing and requirements for commercial licenses. The exemption applies to all farm vehicles under 26,000 pounds that are hauling commodities, livestock and equipment and are operated by a farmer, rancher or their employee. Heavier trucks would also be exempt if they are within 150 miles of the farm.
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