Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Diabetes Mellitus, 20876-20879 [2012-8385]

Download as PDF 20876 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 67 / Friday, April 6, 2012 / Notices listed under ‘‘Conditions and Requirements’’ above. In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315 each exemption will be valid for two years unless revoked earlier by FMCSA. The exemption will be revoked if the following occurs: (1) The person fails to comply with the terms and conditions of the exemption; (2) the exemption has resulted in a lower level of safety than was maintained before it was granted; or (3) continuation of the exemption would not be consistent with the goals and objectives of 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315. If the exemption is still effective at the end of the 2-year period, the person may apply to FMCSA for a renewal under procedures in effect at that time. Issued on: March 29, 2012. Larry W. Minor, Associate Administrator for Policy. [FR Doc. 2012–8375 Filed 4–5–12; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–EX–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration [Docket No. FMCSA–2012–0044] Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Diabetes Mellitus Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). ACTION: Notice of applications for exemption from the diabetes mellitus requirement; request for comments. AGENCY: FMCSA announces receipt of applications from 22 individuals for exemption from the prohibition against persons with insulin-treated diabetes mellitus (ITDM) operating commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce. If granted, the exemptions would enable these individuals with ITDM to operate CMVs in interstate commerce. SUMMARY: Comments must be received on or before May 7, 2012. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments bearing the Federal Docket Management System (FDMS) Docket No. FMCSA– 2012–0044 using any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the on-line instructions for submitting comments. • Mail: Docket Management Facility; U.S. Department of Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, Washington, DC 20590–0001. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with NOTICES DATES: VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:17 Apr 05, 2012 Jkt 226001 • Hand Delivery: West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal Holidays. • Fax: 1–202–493–2251. Instructions: Each submission must include the Agency name and the docket numbers for this notice. Note that all comments received will be posted without change to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information provided. Please see the Privacy Act heading below for further information. Docket: For access to the docket to read background documents or comments, go to https:// www.regulations.gov at any time or Room W12–140 on the ground level of the West Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The Federal Docket Management System (FDMS) is available 24 hours each day, 365 days each year. If you want acknowledgment that we received your comments, please include a selfaddressed, stamped envelope or postcard or print the acknowledgement page that appears after submitting comments on-line. Privacy Act: Anyone may search the electronic form of all comments received into any of our dockets by the name of the individual submitting the comment (or of the person signing the comment, if submitted on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.). You may review DOT’s Privacy Act Statement for the FDMS published in the Federal Register on January 17, 2008 (73 FR 3316), or you may visit https://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2008/pdf/ E8–785.pdf. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Elaine M. Papp, Chief, Medical Programs Division, (202) 366–4001, fmcsamedical@dot.gov, FMCSA, Department of Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Room W64– 224, Washington, DC 20590–0001. Office hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Background Under 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, FMCSA may grant an exemption from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations for a 2-year period if it finds ‘‘such exemption would likely achieve a level of safety that is equivalent to or greater than the level that would be achieved absent such exemption.’’ The PO 00000 Frm 00098 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 statute also allows the Agency to renew exemptions at the end of the 2-year period. The 22 individuals listed in this notice have recently requested such an exemption from the diabetes prohibition in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(3), which applies to drivers of CMVs in interstate commerce. Accordingly, the Agency will evaluate the qualifications of each applicant to determine whether granting the exemption will achieve the required level of safety mandated by the statutes. Qualifications of Applicants Adele M. Aasen Ms. Aasen, age 50, has had ITDM since 1971. Her endocrinologist examined her in 2012 and certified that she has had no severe hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. Her endocrinologist certifies that Ms. Aasen understands diabetes management and monitoring, has stable control of her diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) safely. Ms. Aasen meets the vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). Her optometrist examined her in 2011 and certified that she does not have diabetic retinopathy. She holds a Class D operator’s license from North Dakota. David P. Altomer Mr. Altomer, 52, has had ITDM since 2011. His endocrinologist examined him in 2011 and certified that he has had no severe hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Altomer understands diabetes management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Altomer meets the vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2012 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) from New York. Steven W. Beaty Mr. Beaty, 36, has had ITDM since 2011. His endocrinologist examined him in 2011 and certified that he has had no severe hypoglycemic reactions resulting E:\FR\FM\06APN1.SGM 06APN1 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 67 / Friday, April 6, 2012 / Notices 20877 in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Conley understands diabetes management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Conley meets the vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2011 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class D operator’s license from Wisconsin. in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Hansen understands diabetes management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Hansen meets the vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2012 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Wisconsin. David D. Brown Mr. Brown, 42, has had ITDM since 2012. His endocrinologist examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Brown understands diabetes management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Brown meets the vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2012 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Michigan. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with NOTICES in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Beaty understands diabetes management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Beaty meets the vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2011 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class 1 operator’s license from South Dakota. Emil H. Ellis, Jr. Mr. Ellis, 58, has had ITDM since 2008. His endocrinologist examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Ellis understands diabetes management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Ellis meets the vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2011 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Washington. Erik F. Brown Mr. Brown, 46, has had ITDM since 1986. His endocrinologist examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Brown understands diabetes management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Brown meets the vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2011 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class C operator’s license from California. Cecil E. Glenn Mr. Glenn, 63, has had ITDM since 1991. His endocrinologist examined him in 2011 and certified that he has had no severe hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Glenn understands diabetes management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Glenn meets the vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2012 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class C operator’s license from California. Todd A. Heitschmidt Mr. Heitschmidt, 41, has had ITDM since 2008. His endocrinologist examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Heitschmidt understands diabetes management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Heitschmidt meets the vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2011 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Washington. Michael R. Conley Mr. Conley, 21, has had ITDM since 2002. His endocrinologist examined him in 2011 and certified that he has had no severe hypoglycemic reactions resulting Evan P. Hansen Mr. Hansen, 55, has had ITDM since 2011. His endocrinologist examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe hypoglycemic reactions resulting VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:17 Apr 05, 2012 Jkt 226001 PO 00000 Frm 00099 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 John M. Kennedy Mr. Kennedy, 57, has had ITDM since 2009. His endocrinologist examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Kennedy understands diabetes management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Kennedy meets the vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2012 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from North Carolina. Jeremy A. Ludolph Mr. Ludolph, 21, has had ITDM since 2006. His endocrinologist examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no E:\FR\FM\06APN1.SGM 06APN1 20878 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 67 / Friday, April 6, 2012 / Notices severe hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Ludolph understands diabetes management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Ludolph meets the vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2012 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Kansas. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with NOTICES Bradley A. Marlow Mr. Marlow, 50, has had ITDM since 2010. His endocrinologist examined him in 2011 and certified that he has had no severe hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Marlow understands diabetes management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Marlow meets the vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2011 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Washington. Gerald N. Martinson Mr. Martinson, 65, has had ITDM since 2011. His endocrinologist examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Martinson understands diabetes management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Martinson meets the vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2012 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from North Dakota. Karl L. Price Mr. Price, 52, has had ITDM since 2003. His endocrinologist examined him VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:17 Apr 05, 2012 Jkt 226001 in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Price understands diabetes management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Price meets the vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2012 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class D operator’s license from Mississippi. Earl C. Saxton Mr. Saxton, 49, has had ITDM since 2009. His endocrinologist examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Saxton understands diabetes management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Saxton meets the vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2011 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Missouri. Alan J. Schipkowski Mr. Schipkowski, 61, has had ITDM since 2011. His endocrinologist examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Schipkowski understands diabetes management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Schipkowski meets the vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2011 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class D operator’s license from Illinois. PO 00000 Frm 00100 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 William H. Stone, Sr. Mr. Stone, 71, has had ITDM since 2001. His endocrinologist examined him in 2011 and certified that he has had no severe hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Stone understands diabetes management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Stone meets the vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2011 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class B CDL from Florida. Glenn D. Taylor Mr. Taylor, 37, has had ITDM since 1986. His endocrinologist examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Taylor understands diabetes management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Taylor meets the vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2012 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from New York. Richard E. Thomas Mr. Thomas, 54, has had ITDM since 2012. His endocrinologist examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Thomas understands diabetes management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Thomas meets the vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2012 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Ohio. E:\FR\FM\06APN1.SGM 06APN1 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 67 / Friday, April 6, 2012 / Notices Thomas R. Toews Mr. Toews, 71, has had ITDM since 2011. His endocrinologist examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Toews understands diabetes management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Toews meets the vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2012 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Oregon. James E. Waller, III Mr. Waller, 41, has had ITDM since 2011. His endocrinologist examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Waller understands diabetes management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Waller meets the vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2012 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Georgia. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with NOTICES Request for Comments 1 Section 4129(a) refers to the 2003 notice as a ‘‘final rule.’’ However, the 2003 notice did not issue a ‘‘final rule’’ but did establish the procedures and standards for issuing exemptions for drivers with ITDM. 16:17 Apr 05, 2012 Dated: Issued on: April 2, 2012. Larry W. Minor, Associate Administrator for Policy. [FR Doc. 2012–8385 Filed 4–5–12; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE P In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, FMCSA requests public comment from all interested persons on the exemption petitions described in this notice. We will consider all comments received before the close of business on the closing date indicated in the date section of the notice. FMCSA notes that section 4129 of the Safe, Accountable, Flexible and Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users requires the Secretary to revise its diabetes exemption program established on September 3, 2003 (68 FR 52441).1 The revision must provide for individual assessment of drivers with VerDate Mar<15>2010 diabetes mellitus, and be consistent with the criteria described in section 4018 of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (49 U.S.C. 31305). Section 4129 requires: (1) Elimination of the requirement for 3 years of experience operating CMVs while being treated with insulin; and (2) establishment of a specified minimum period of insulin use to demonstrate stable control of diabetes before being allowed to operate a CMV. In response to section 4129, FMCSA made immediate revisions to the diabetes exemption program established by the September 3, 2003 notice. FMCSA discontinued use of the 3-year driving experience and fulfilled the requirements of section 4129 while continuing to ensure that operation of CMVs by drivers with ITDM will achieve the requisite level of safety required of all exemptions granted under 49 USC. 31136(e). Section 4129(d) also directed FMCSA to ensure that drivers of CMVs with ITDM are not held to a higher standard than other drivers, with the exception of limited operating, monitoring and medical requirements that are deemed medically necessary. The FMCSA concluded that all of the operating, monitoring and medical requirements set out in the September 3, 2003 notice, except as modified, were in compliance with section 4129(d). Therefore, all of the requirements set out in the September 3, 2003 notice, except as modified by the notice in the Federal Register on November 8, 2005 (70 FR 67777), remain in effect. Jkt 226001 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration [Docket No. FMCSA–2012–0039] Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of applications for exemptions; request for comments. AGENCY: FMCSA announces receipt of applications from 13 individuals for exemption from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. If granted, the exemptions would enable these individuals to SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00101 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 20879 qualify as drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce without meeting the Federal vision requirement. DATES: Comments must be received on or before May 7, 2012. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments bearing the Federal Docket Management System (FDMS) Docket No. FMCSA– 2012–0039 using any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the on-line instructions for submitting comments. • Mail: Docket Management Facility; U.S. Department of Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, Washington, DC 20590–0001. • Hand Delivery: West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal Holidays. • Fax: 1–202–493–2251. Instructions: Each submission must include the Agency name and the docket numbers for this notice. Note that all comments received will be posted without change to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information provided. Please see the Privacy Act heading below for further information. Docket: For access to the docket to read background documents or comments, go to https:// www.regulations.gov at any time or Room W12–140 on the ground level of the West Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The FDMS is available 24 hours each day, 365 days each year. If you want acknowledgment that we received your comments, please include a selfaddressed, stamped envelope or postcard or print the acknowledgement page that appears after submitting comments on-line. Privacy Act: Anyone may search the electronic form of all comments received into any of our dockets by the name of the individual submitting the comment (or of the person signing the comment, if submitted on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.). You may review DOT’s Privacy Act Statement for the FDMS published in the Federal Register on January 17, 2008 (73 FR 3316), or you may visit https://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2008/pdf/ E8–785.pdf. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Elaine M. Papp, Chief, Medical E:\FR\FM\06APN1.SGM 06APN1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 77, Number 67 (Friday, April 6, 2012)]
[Notices]
[Pages 20876-20879]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2012-8385]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

[Docket No. FMCSA-2012-0044]


Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Diabetes 
Mellitus

AGENCY: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

ACTION: Notice of applications for exemption from the diabetes mellitus 
requirement; request for comments.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: FMCSA announces receipt of applications from 22 individuals 
for exemption from the prohibition against persons with insulin-treated 
diabetes mellitus (ITDM) operating commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in 
interstate commerce. If granted, the exemptions would enable these 
individuals with ITDM to operate CMVs in interstate commerce.

DATES: Comments must be received on or before May 7, 2012.

ADDRESSES: You may submit comments bearing the Federal Docket 
Management System (FDMS) Docket No. FMCSA-2012-0044 using any of the 
following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the on-line instructions for submitting 
comments.
     Mail: Docket Management Facility; U.S. Department of 
Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., West Building Ground Floor, 
Room W12-140, Washington, DC 20590-0001.
     Hand Delivery: West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal Holidays.
     Fax: 1-202-493-2251.
    Instructions: Each submission must include the Agency name and the 
docket numbers for this notice. Note that all comments received will be 
posted without change to https://www.regulations.gov, including any 
personal information provided. Please see the Privacy Act heading below 
for further information.
    Docket: For access to the docket to read background documents or 
comments, go to https://www.regulations.gov at any time or Room W12-140 
on the ground level of the West Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., 
Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, 
except Federal holidays. The Federal Docket Management System (FDMS) is 
available 24 hours each day, 365 days each year. If you want 
acknowledgment that we received your comments, please include a self-
addressed, stamped envelope or postcard or print the acknowledgement 
page that appears after submitting comments on-line.
    Privacy Act: Anyone may search the electronic form of all comments 
received into any of our dockets by the name of the individual 
submitting the comment (or of the person signing the comment, if 
submitted on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.). 
You may review DOT's Privacy Act Statement for the FDMS published in 
the Federal Register on January 17, 2008 (73 FR 3316), or you may visit 
https://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2008/pdf/E8-785.pdf.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Elaine M. Papp, Chief, Medical 
Programs Division, (202) 366-4001, fmcsamedical@dot.gov, FMCSA, 
Department of Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Room W64-224, 
Washington, DC 20590-0001. Office hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

    Under 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, FMCSA may grant an exemption 
from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations for a 2-year period 
if it finds ``such exemption would likely achieve a level of safety 
that is equivalent to or greater than the level that would be achieved 
absent such exemption.'' The statute also allows the Agency to renew 
exemptions at the end of the 2-year period. The 22 individuals listed 
in this notice have recently requested such an exemption from the 
diabetes prohibition in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(3), which applies to drivers 
of CMVs in interstate commerce. Accordingly, the Agency will evaluate 
the qualifications of each applicant to determine whether granting the 
exemption will achieve the required level of safety mandated by the 
statutes.

Qualifications of Applicants

Adele M. Aasen

    Ms. Aasen, age 50, has had ITDM since 1971. Her endocrinologist 
examined her in 2012 and certified that she has had no severe 
hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring 
the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive 
function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no 
recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. 
Her endocrinologist certifies that Ms. Aasen understands diabetes 
management and monitoring, has stable control of her diabetes using 
insulin, and is able to drive a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) safely. 
Ms. Aasen meets the vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). Her 
optometrist examined her in 2011 and certified that she does not have 
diabetic retinopathy. She holds a Class D operator's license from North 
Dakota.

David P. Altomer

    Mr. Altomer, 52, has had ITDM since 2011. His endocrinologist 
examined him in 2011 and certified that he has had no severe 
hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring 
the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive 
function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no 
recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. 
His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Altomer understands diabetes 
management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using 
insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Altomer meets the 
vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist 
examined him in 2012 and certified that he does not have diabetic 
retinopathy. He holds a Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) from 
New York.

Steven W. Beaty

    Mr. Beaty, 36, has had ITDM since 2011. His endocrinologist 
examined him in 2011 and certified that he has had no severe 
hypoglycemic reactions resulting

[[Page 20877]]

in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, 
or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without 
warning in the past 12 months and no recurrent (2 or more) severe 
hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. His endocrinologist 
certifies that Mr. Beaty understands diabetes management and 
monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is 
able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Beaty meets the vision requirements of 
49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2011 and 
certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class 
1 operator's license from South Dakota.

David D. Brown

    Mr. Brown, 42, has had ITDM since 2012. His endocrinologist 
examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe 
hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring 
the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive 
function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no 
recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. 
His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Brown understands diabetes 
management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using 
insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Brown meets the vision 
requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 
2012 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds 
a Class A CDL from Michigan.

Erik F. Brown

    Mr. Brown, 46, has had ITDM since 1986. His endocrinologist 
examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe 
hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring 
the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive 
function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no 
recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. 
His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Brown understands diabetes 
management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using 
insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Brown meets the vision 
requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 
2011 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds 
a Class C operator's license from California.

Michael R. Conley

    Mr. Conley, 21, has had ITDM since 2002. His endocrinologist 
examined him in 2011 and certified that he has had no severe 
hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring 
the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive 
function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no 
recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. 
His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Conley understands diabetes 
management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using 
insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Conley meets the vision 
requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 
2011 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds 
a Class D operator's license from Wisconsin.

Emil H. Ellis, Jr.

    Mr. Ellis, 58, has had ITDM since 2008. His endocrinologist 
examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe 
hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring 
the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive 
function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no 
recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. 
His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Ellis understands diabetes 
management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using 
insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Ellis meets the vision 
requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 
2011 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds 
a Class A CDL from Washington.

Cecil E. Glenn

    Mr. Glenn, 63, has had ITDM since 1991. His endocrinologist 
examined him in 2011 and certified that he has had no severe 
hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring 
the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive 
function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no 
recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. 
His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Glenn understands diabetes 
management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using 
insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Glenn meets the vision 
requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him 
in 2012 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He 
holds a Class C operator's license from California.

Evan P. Hansen

    Mr. Hansen, 55, has had ITDM since 2011. His endocrinologist 
examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe 
hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring 
the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive 
function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no 
recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. 
His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Hansen understands diabetes 
management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using 
insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Hansen meets the vision 
requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him 
in 2012 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He 
holds a Class A CDL from Wisconsin.

Todd A. Heitschmidt

    Mr. Heitschmidt, 41, has had ITDM since 2008. His endocrinologist 
examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe 
hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring 
the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive 
function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no 
recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. 
His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Heitschmidt understands diabetes 
management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using 
insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Heitschmidt meets the 
vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined 
him in 2011 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. 
He holds a Class A CDL from Washington.

John M. Kennedy

    Mr. Kennedy, 57, has had ITDM since 2009. His endocrinologist 
examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe 
hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring 
the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive 
function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no 
recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. 
His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Kennedy understands diabetes 
management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using 
insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Kennedy meets the 
vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined 
him in 2012 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. 
He holds a Class A CDL from North Carolina.

Jeremy A. Ludolph

    Mr. Ludolph, 21, has had ITDM since 2006. His endocrinologist 
examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no

[[Page 20878]]

severe hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, 
requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired 
cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months 
and no recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 
years. His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Ludolph understands 
diabetes management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes 
using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Ludolph meets the 
vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined 
him in 2012 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. 
He holds a Class A CDL from Kansas.

Bradley A. Marlow

    Mr. Marlow, 50, has had ITDM since 2010. His endocrinologist 
examined him in 2011 and certified that he has had no severe 
hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring 
the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive 
function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no 
recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. 
His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Marlow understands diabetes 
management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using 
insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Marlow meets the vision 
requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him 
in 2011 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He 
holds a Class A CDL from Washington.

Gerald N. Martinson

    Mr. Martinson, 65, has had ITDM since 2011. His endocrinologist 
examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe 
hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring 
the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive 
function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no 
recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. 
His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Martinson understands diabetes 
management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using 
insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Martinson meets the 
vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined 
him in 2012 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. 
He holds a Class A CDL from North Dakota.

Karl L. Price

    Mr. Price, 52, has had ITDM since 2003. His endocrinologist 
examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe 
hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring 
the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive 
function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no 
recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. 
His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Price understands diabetes 
management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using 
insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Price meets the vision 
requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 
2012 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds 
a Class D operator's license from Mississippi.

Earl C. Saxton

    Mr. Saxton, 49, has had ITDM since 2009. His endocrinologist 
examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe 
hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring 
the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive 
function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no 
recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. 
His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Saxton understands diabetes 
management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using 
insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Saxton meets the vision 
requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 
2011 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds 
a Class A CDL from Missouri.

Alan J. Schipkowski

    Mr. Schipkowski, 61, has had ITDM since 2011. His endocrinologist 
examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe 
hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring 
the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive 
function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no 
recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. 
His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Schipkowski understands diabetes 
management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using 
insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Schipkowski meets the 
vision requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined 
him in 2011 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. 
He holds a Class D operator's license from Illinois.

William H. Stone, Sr.

    Mr. Stone, 71, has had ITDM since 2001. His endocrinologist 
examined him in 2011 and certified that he has had no severe 
hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring 
the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive 
function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no 
recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. 
His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Stone understands diabetes 
management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using 
insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Stone meets the vision 
requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him 
in 2011 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He 
holds a Class B CDL from Florida.

Glenn D. Taylor

    Mr. Taylor, 37, has had ITDM since 1986. His endocrinologist 
examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe 
hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring 
the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive 
function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no 
recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. 
His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Taylor understands diabetes 
management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using 
insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Taylor meets the vision 
requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 
2012 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds 
a Class A CDL from New York.

Richard E. Thomas

    Mr. Thomas, 54, has had ITDM since 2012. His endocrinologist 
examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe 
hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring 
the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive 
function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no 
recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. 
His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Thomas understands diabetes 
management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using 
insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Thomas meets the vision 
requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him 
in 2012 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He 
holds a Class A CDL from Ohio.

[[Page 20879]]

Thomas R. Toews

    Mr. Toews, 71, has had ITDM since 2011. His endocrinologist 
examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe 
hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring 
the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive 
function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no 
recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. 
His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Toews understands diabetes 
management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using 
insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Toews meets the vision 
requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him 
in 2012 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He 
holds a Class A CDL from Oregon.

James E. Waller, III

    Mr. Waller, 41, has had ITDM since 2011. His endocrinologist 
examined him in 2012 and certified that he has had no severe 
hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring 
the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive 
function that occurred without warning in the past 12 months and no 
recurrent (2 or more) severe hypoglycemic episodes in the last 5 years. 
His endocrinologist certifies that Mr. Waller understands diabetes 
management and monitoring, has stable control of his diabetes using 
insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Waller meets the vision 
requirements of 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 
2012 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds 
a Class A CDL from Georgia.

Request for Comments

    In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, FMCSA requests 
public comment from all interested persons on the exemption petitions 
described in this notice. We will consider all comments received before 
the close of business on the closing date indicated in the date section 
of the notice.
    FMCSA notes that section 4129 of the Safe, Accountable, Flexible 
and Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users requires 
the Secretary to revise its diabetes exemption program established on 
September 3, 2003 (68 FR 52441).\1\ The revision must provide for 
individual assessment of drivers with diabetes mellitus, and be 
consistent with the criteria described in section 4018 of the 
Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (49 U.S.C. 31305).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ Section 4129(a) refers to the 2003 notice as a ``final 
rule.'' However, the 2003 notice did not issue a ``final rule'' but 
did establish the procedures and standards for issuing exemptions 
for drivers with ITDM.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Section 4129 requires: (1) Elimination of the requirement for 3 
years of experience operating CMVs while being treated with insulin; 
and (2) establishment of a specified minimum period of insulin use to 
demonstrate stable control of diabetes before being allowed to operate 
a CMV.
    In response to section 4129, FMCSA made immediate revisions to the 
diabetes exemption program established by the September 3, 2003 notice. 
FMCSA discontinued use of the 3-year driving experience and fulfilled 
the requirements of section 4129 while continuing to ensure that 
operation of CMVs by drivers with ITDM will achieve the requisite level 
of safety required of all exemptions granted under 49 USC. 31136(e).
    Section 4129(d) also directed FMCSA to ensure that drivers of CMVs 
with ITDM are not held to a higher standard than other drivers, with 
the exception of limited operating, monitoring and medical requirements 
that are deemed medically necessary.
    The FMCSA concluded that all of the operating, monitoring and 
medical requirements set out in the September 3, 2003 notice, except as 
modified, were in compliance with section 4129(d). Therefore, all of 
the requirements set out in the September 3, 2003 notice, except as 
modified by the notice in the Federal Register on November 8, 2005 (70 
FR 67777), remain in effect.

    Dated: Issued on: April 2, 2012.
Larry W. Minor,
Associate Administrator for Policy.
[FR Doc. 2012-8385 Filed 4-5-12; 8:45 am]
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