Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision, 13043-13045 [2017-04527]

Download as PDF mstockstill on DSK3G9T082PROD with NOTICES Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 44 / Wednesday, March 8, 2017 / Notices following 10 individuals, have satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an exemption from the rule prohibiting drivers with ITDM from driving CMVs in interstate commerce (77 FR 10612; 77 FR 20874): Rick J. Birdsall (NE) Steven L. Drake (CA) Benjamin J. Duea (MN) Steven E. Greer (MN) Jonathan E. Hunsaker (OR) William D. Larsen (SD) Lee A. Richardson (NC) William W. Simmons (FL) Ronald O. Snyder (OH) Douglas J. Wood (NY) The drivers were included in Docket No. FMCSA–2011–0382. Their exemptions are effective as of April 6, 2016, and will expire on April 6, 2018. As of April 15, 2016, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, Maximo E. Gaytan (CO) has satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an exemption from the rule prohibiting drivers with ITDM from driving CMVs in interstate commerce (79 FR 14579; 79 FR 28590): This driver was included in Docket No. FMCSA–2014–0013. The exemption is effective as of April 15, 2016, and will expire on April 15, 2018. As of April 27, 2016, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, the following 10 individuals, have satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an exemption from the rule prohibiting drivers with ITDM from driving CMVs in interstate commerce (77 FR 13686; 77 FR 25227): Alvin Acevedo (NJ) Bobby D. Bennett (GA) Mark S. Clemence (KS) Elwood F. Gorom (WA) Mike W. Holland (IL) Dan M. McAllister (WI) Paul F. Rivers (MN) Marcus V. Romo (ID) Wayne L. Snyder (OH) Justin K. Zimmerschied (KS) The drivers were included in Docket No. FMCSA–2011–0383. Their exemptions are effective as of April 27, 2016, and will expire on April 27, 2018. As of April 30, 2016, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, the following 2 individuals, have satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an exemption from the rule prohibiting drivers with ITDM from driving CMVs in interstate commerce (79 FR 10612; 79 FR 14579; 79 FR 28590; 79 FR 27685): Charles L. Bryant (PA) Christopher P. Martin (NH) The drivers were included in Docket Nos. FMCSA–2014–0012; FMCSA– VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:34 Mar 07, 2017 Jkt 241001 2014–0013. Their exemptions are effective as of April 30, 2016, and will expire on April 30, 2018. In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31315, each exemption will be valid for two years from the effective date 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 prior to being granted; or (3) continuation of the exemption would not be consistent with the goals and objectives of 49 U.S.C. 31136 and 31315. Issued on: February 28, 2017. Larry W. Minor, Associate Administrator for Policy. [FR Doc. 2017–04528 Filed 3–7–17; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–EX–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration [Docket No. FMCSA–2000–7363; FMCSA– 2000–7918; FMCSA–2000–8398; FMCSA– 2002–13411; FMCSA–2004–17984; FMCSA– 2006–24015; FMCSA–2006–24783; FMCSA– 2006–25246; FMCSA–2006–26066; FMCSA– 2008–0266; FMCSA–2008–0292; FMCSA– 2008–0340; FMCSA–2010–0201; FMCSA– 2010–0385; FMCSA–2012–0337; FMCSA– 2012–0338; FMCSA–2012–0339; FMCSA– 2014–0296; FMCSA–2014–0299; FMCSA– 2014–0301] Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of renewal of exemptions; request for comments. AGENCY: FMCSA announces its decision to renew exemptions for 62 individuals from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) for interstate commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. The exemptions enable these individuals to continue to operate CMVs in interstate commerce without meeting the vision requirement in one eye. DATES: Each group of renewed exemptions was effective on the dates stated in the discussions below and will expire on the dates stated in the discussions below. Comments must be received on or before April 7, 2017. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Christine A. Hydock, Chief, Medical Programs Division, 202–366–4001, fmcsamedical@dot.gov, FMCSA, Department of Transportation, 1200 SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00119 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 13043 New Jersey Avenue SE., Room W64– 224, Washington, DC 20590–0001. Office hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., e.t., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. If you have questions regarding viewing or submitting material to the docket, contact Docket Services, telephone (202) 366–9826. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments bearing the Federal Docket Management System (FDMS) Docket No. FMCSA– 2000–7363; FMCSA–2000–7918; FMCSA–2000–8398; FMCSA–2002– 13411; FMCSA–2004–17984; FMCSA– 2006–24015; FMCSA–2006–24783; FMCSA–2006–25246; FMCSA–2006– 26066; FMCSA–2008–0266; FMCSA– 2008–0292; FMCSA–2008–0340; FMCSA–2010–0201; FMCSA–2010– 0385; FMCSA–2012–0337; FMCSA– 2012–0338; FMCSA–2012–0339; FMCSA–2014–0296; FMCSA–2014– 0299; FMCSA–2014–0301 using any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online 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., e.t., Monday through Friday, except Federal Holidays. • Fax: 1–202–493–2251. Instructions: Each submission must include the Agency name and the docket number(s) 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., e.t., 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 online. Privacy Act: In accordance with 5 U.S.C. 553(c), DOT solicits comments E:\FR\FM\08MRN1.SGM 08MRN1 13044 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 44 / Wednesday, March 8, 2017 / Notices from the public to better inform its rulemaking process. DOT posts these comments, without edit, including any personal information the commenter provides, to https://www.regulations.gov, as described in the system of records notice (DOT/ALL–14 FDMS), which can be reviewed at https://www.dot.gov/ privacy. I. Background Under 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, FMCSA may grant an exemption for two years 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 two-year period. The physical qualification standard for drivers regarding vision found in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10) states that a person is physically qualified to drive a CMV if that person: Has distant visual acuity of at least 20/40 (Snellen) in each eye without corrective lenses or visual acuity separately corrected to 20/40 (Snellen) or better with corrective lenses, distant binocular acuity of at least 20/ 40 (Snellen) in both eyes with or without corrective lenses, field of vision of at least 70° in the horizontal meridian in each eye, and the ability to recognize the colors of traffic signals and devices showing red, green, and amber. The 62 individuals listed in this notice have requested renewal of their exemptions from the vision standard in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10), in accordance with FMCSA procedures. Accordingly, FMCSA has evaluated these applications for renewal on their merits and decided to extend each exemption for a renewable two-year period II. Request for Comments mstockstill on DSK3G9T082PROD with NOTICES Interested parties or organizations possessing information that would otherwise show that any, or all, of these drivers are not currently achieving the statutory level of safety should immediately notify FMCSA. The Agency will evaluate any adverse evidence submitted and, if safety is being compromised or if continuation of the exemption would not be consistent with the goals and objectives of 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, FMCSA will take immediate steps to revoke the exemption of a driver. III. Basis for Renewing Exemptions Under 49 U.S.C. 31315(b)(1), an exemption may be granted for no longer than two years from its approval date and may be renewed upon application. In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, each of the 62 applicants has VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:34 Mar 07, 2017 Jkt 241001 satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an exemption from the vision requirement (65 FR 45817; 65 FR 66286; 65 FR 77066; 65 FR 78256; 66 FR 13825; 66 FR 16311; 67 FR 71610; 67 FR 76439; 68 FR 10298; 68 FR 10300; 68 FR 13360; 69 FR 33997; 69 FR 61292; 70 FR 7545; 70 FR 7546; 70 FR 12265; 71 FR 14566; 71 FR 30227; 71 FR 32183; 71 FR 41310; 71 FR 55820; 71 FR 63379; 71 FR 63380; 72 FR 180; 72 FR 1050; 72 FR 7111; 72 FR 7812; 72 FR 9397; 72 FR 11426; 73 FR 27014; 73 FR 36955; 73 FR 51689; 73 FR 61922; 73 FR 61925; 73 FR 63047; 73 FR 74563; 73 FR 75803; 73 FR 78422; 74 FR 6209; 74 FR 6211; 74 FR 6212; 74 FR 6689; 74 FR 8302; 75 FR 36778; 75 FR 54958; 75 FR 59327; 75 FR 70078; 75 FR 77942; 75 FR 77949; 75 FR 79083; 76 FR 4413; 76 FR 5425; 76 FR 9859; 76 FR 9861; 76 FR 9865; 76 FR 11215; 77 FR 48590; 77 FR 68199; 77 FR 68200; 77 FR 70534; 77 FR 74273; 77 FR 74731; 78 FR 10250; 78 FR 11731; 78 FR 12811; 78 FR 12813; 78 FR 12817; 78 FR 12822; 78 FR 797; 78 FR 1919; 78 FR 8689; 78 FR 9772; 78 FR 14410; 79 FR 58856; 79 FR 59357; 79 FR 65760; 79 FR 72754; 79 FR 73397; 79 FR 73687; 80 FR 3305; 80 FR 3308; 80 FR 3723; 80 FR 6162; 80 FR 7678; 80 FR 7679; 80 FR 8751; 80 FR 9304; 80 FR 15859; 80 FR 20562). They have submitted evidence showing that the vision in the better eye continues to meet the requirement specified at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10) and that the vision impairment is stable. In addition, a review of each record of safety while driving with the respective vision deficiencies over the past two years indicates each applicant continues to meet the vision exemption requirements. These factors provide an adequate basis for predicting each driver’s ability to continue to drive safely in interstate commerce. Therefore, FMCSA concludes that extending the exemption for each renewal applicant for a period of two years is likely to achieve a level of safety equal to that existing without the exemption. In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, the following groups of drivers received renewed exemptions in the month of July and are discussed below: As of March 1, 2017, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, the following 16 individuals have satisfied the conditions for obtaining a renewed exemption from the vision requirements (69 FR 33997; 69 FR 61292; 71 FR 32183; 71 FR 41310; 71 FR 55820; 71 FR 63379; 71 FR 63380; 72 FR 180; 72 FR 1050; 72 FR 9397; 73 FR 36955; 73 FR 61922; 73 FR 61925; 73 FR 74563; 73 FR 75803; 73 FR 78422; 74 FR 6209; 74 FR 6211; 75 FR 36778; PO 00000 Frm 00120 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 75 FR 54958; 75 FR 59327; 75 FR 70078; 75 FR 77949; 75 FR 79083; 76 FR 4413; 76 FR 9865; 77 FR 48590; 77 FR 68199; 77 FR 68200; 77 FR 70534; 77 FR 74273; 77 FR 74731; 78 FR 797; 78 FR 9772; 78 FR 11731; 78 FR 12811; 78 FR 12813; 78 FR 12817; 79 FR 58856; 79 FR 59357; 79 FR 65760; 79 FR 72754; 79 FR 73397; 79 FR 73687; 80 FR 3305; 80 FR 3308; 80 FR 3723; 80 FR 8751; 80 GT 9304): Jawad K. Al-Shaibani (WA) Keith E. Breeding (IN) Robert M. Cassell, Jr. (NC) Steven J. Clark (GA) Joseph Colecchi (PA) Thomas A. Crowell (NC) David M. Hagadorn (NJ) Ricky G. Jacks (AL) William D. Koiner (TX) David S. Matheny (WA) Elmer R. Miller (IL) Jeffrey L. Olson (MN) Randall S. Surber (WV) Ernest W. Waff (VA) Curtis E. Way (TX) Patricia A. White (IL) The drivers were included in one of the following dockets: Docket Nos. FMCSA–2004–17984; FMCSA–2006– 24783; FMCSA–2006–25246; FMCSA– 2006–26066; FMCSA–2008–0292; FMCSA–2008–0340; FMCSA–2010– 0201; FMCSA–2012–0337; FMCSA– 2012–0338; FMCSA–2012–0339; FMCSA–2014–0296; FMCSA–2014– 0299. Their exemptions are effective as of March 1, 2017, and will expire on March 1, 2019. As of March 4, 2017, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, the following 8 individuals have satisfied the conditions for obtaining a renewed exemption from the vision requirements (65 FR 45817; 65 FR 77066; 67 FR 71610; 67 FR 76439; 68 FR 10298; 70 FR 7545; 72 FR 7812; 74 FR 6689; 76 FR 9859; 78 FR 8689; 80 FR 7678): Kirk G. Braegger (UT) Ambrosio Calles (NM) Harry P. Henning (PA) Christopher L. Humphries (TX) Ralph J. Miles (OR) Stanley B. Salkowski, III (PA) Michael G. Thomas (PA) William H. Twardus (DE) The drivers were included on the following dockets: Docket No. FMCSA– 2000–7363; FMCSA–2002–13411. Their exemptions are effective as of March 4, 2017, and will expire on March 4, 2019. As of March 7, 2017, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, the following 23 individuals have satisfied the conditions for obtaining a renewed exemption from the vision requirements (65 FR 66286; 66 FR 13825; 68 FR 10300; 70 FR 7546; 72 E:\FR\FM\08MRN1.SGM 08MRN1 mstockstill on DSK3G9T082PROD with NOTICES Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 44 / Wednesday, March 8, 2017 / Notices FR 180; 72 FR 7111; 72 FR 9397; 74 FR 6211; 74 FR 6212; 75 FR 77942; 76 FR 5425; 76 FR 9861; 78 FR 10250; 80 FR 6162; 80 FR 7679; 80 FR 20562): Jason P. Atwater (UT) Barry W. Borger (PA) William W. Dugger (KY) Steven D. Ellsworth (IL) Glen T. Garrabrant (NJ) Richard A. Guthrie (MT) Abdalla M. Jalili (IL) Alan L. Johnston (IL) David M. Krause (WI) Stephen C. Martin (PA) James E. Menz (NY) Ronald M. Metzger (NY) Gerald D. Milner (IL) Ali Nimer (IL) Richard A. Pierce (MO) Rance A. Powell (AL) Shannon E. Rasmussen (WY) Richard P. Rebel (ND) Mustafa Shahadeh (OH) Charles P. Smith (MO) Timothy R. Tedford (IL) Melvin L. Vaughn (WI) Rick L. Wood (PA) The drivers were included on the following dockets: Docket No. FMCSA– 2000–7918; FMCSA–2006–25246; FMCSA–2010–0385; FMCSA–2014– 0301. Their exemptions are effective as of March 7, 2017, and will expire on March 7, 2019. As of March 23, 2017, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, the following 15 individuals have satisfied the conditions for obtaining a renewed exemption from the vision requirements (65 FR 66286; 65 FR 78256; 66 FR 13825; 66 FR 16311; 67 FR 76439; 68 FR 10298; 68 FR 13360; 70 FR 7545; 70 FR 12265; 71 FR 14566; 71 FR 30227; 72 FR 180; 72 FR 7812; 72 FR 9397; 72 FR 11426; 73 FR 27014; 73 FR 51689; 73 FR 63047; 73 FR 75803; 74 FR 6209; 74 FR 6689; 74 FR 8302; 75 FR 77942; 75 FR 77949; 76 FR 4413; 76 FR 5425; 76 FR 9859; 76 FR 9861; 76 FR 11215; 78 FR 8689; 78 FR 12822; 78 FR 14410; 80 FR 15859): Howard K. Bradley (VA) Willie Burnett, Jr. (FL) Marcus L. Conner (TX) Thomas G. Danclovic (MO) Donald K. Driscoll (MA) William G. Holland (AR) Gerald D. Larson Thomas F. Marczewski (WI) Roy E. Mathews (FL) James T. McGraw, Jr. (PA) Robert S. Metcalf (AZ) Bobby G. Pool, Sr. (TX) Steve A. Reece (TN) Jeremichael Steele (NC) Wade D. Taylor (MO) The drivers were included on the following dockets: Docket No. FMCSA– VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:34 Mar 07, 2017 Jkt 241001 2000–7918; FMCSA–2000–8398; FMCSA–2002–13411; FMCSA–2006– 24015; FMCSA–2006–25246; FMCSA– 2008–0266; FMCSA–2008–0340; FMCSA–2010–0385. Their exemptions are effective as of March 23, 2017, and will expire on March 23, 2019. Conditions and Requirements The exemptions are extended subject to the following conditions: (1) Each driver must undergo an annual physical examination (a) by an ophthalmologist or optometrist who attests that the vision in the better eye continues to meet the requirements in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10), and (b) by a certified Medical Examiner, as defined by 49 CFR 390.5, who attests that the driver is otherwise physically qualified under 49 CFR 391.41; (2) each driver must provide a copy of the ophthalmologist’s or optometrist’s report to the Medical Examiner at the time of the annual medical examination; and (3) each driver must provide a copy of the annual medical certification to the employer for retention in the driver’s qualification file and retains a copy of the certification on his/her person while driving for presentation to a duly authorized Federal, State, or local enforcement official. The exemption will be rescinded if: (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. IV. Preemption During the period the exemption is in effect, no State shall enforce any law or regulation that conflicts with this exemption with respect to a person operating under the exemption. VI. Conclusion Based upon its evaluation of the 62 exemption applications, FMCSA renews the exemptions of the aforementioned drivers from the vision requirement in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10), subject to the requirements cited above (49 CFR 391.64(b)). In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, each exemption will be valid for two years unless revoked earlier by FMCSA. Issued on: February 28, 2017. Larry W. Minor, Associate Administrator for Policy. [FR Doc. 2017–04527 Filed 3–7–17; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–EX–P PO 00000 Frm 00121 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 13045 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration [Docket No. FMCSA–2016–0377] 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 17 individuals for exemption from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. They are unable to meet the vision requirement in one eye for various reasons. The exemptions will enable these individuals to operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce without meeting the prescribed vision requirement in one eye. If granted, the exemptions would enable these individuals to qualify as drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce. DATES: Comments must be received on or before April 7, 2017. All comments will be investigated by FMCSA. The exemptions will be issued the day after the comment period closes. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments bearing the Federal Docket Management System (FDMS) Docket No. FMCSA– 2016–0377 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., e.t., 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 SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\08MRN1.SGM 08MRN1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 44 (Wednesday, March 8, 2017)]
[Notices]
[Pages 13043-13045]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-04527]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

[Docket No. FMCSA-2000-7363; FMCSA-2000-7918; FMCSA-2000-8398; FMCSA-
2002-13411; FMCSA-2004-17984; FMCSA-2006-24015; FMCSA-2006-24783; 
FMCSA-2006-25246; FMCSA-2006-26066; FMCSA-2008-0266; FMCSA-2008-0292; 
FMCSA-2008-0340; FMCSA-2010-0201; FMCSA-2010-0385; FMCSA-2012-0337; 
FMCSA-2012-0338; FMCSA-2012-0339; FMCSA-2014-0296; FMCSA-2014-0299; 
FMCSA-2014-0301]


Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision

AGENCY: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of renewal of exemptions; request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: FMCSA announces its decision to renew exemptions for 62 
individuals from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier 
Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) for interstate commercial motor vehicle 
(CMV) drivers. The exemptions enable these individuals to continue to 
operate CMVs in interstate commerce without meeting the vision 
requirement in one eye.

DATES: Each group of renewed exemptions was effective on the dates 
stated in the discussions below and will expire on the dates stated in 
the discussions below. Comments must be received on or before April 7, 
2017.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Christine A. Hydock, 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., 
e.t., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. If you have 
questions regarding viewing or submitting material to the docket, 
contact Docket Services, telephone (202) 366-9826.

ADDRESSES: You may submit comments bearing the Federal Docket 
Management System (FDMS) Docket No. FMCSA-2000-7363; FMCSA-2000-7918; 
FMCSA-2000-8398; FMCSA-2002-13411; FMCSA-2004-17984; FMCSA-2006-24015; 
FMCSA-2006-24783; FMCSA-2006-25246; FMCSA-2006-26066; FMCSA-2008-0266; 
FMCSA-2008-0292; FMCSA-2008-0340; FMCSA-2010-0201; FMCSA-2010-0385; 
FMCSA-2012-0337; FMCSA-2012-0338; FMCSA-2012-0339; FMCSA-2014-0296; 
FMCSA-2014-0299; FMCSA-2014-0301 using any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online 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., 
e.t., Monday through Friday, except Federal Holidays.
     Fax: 1-202-493-2251.
    Instructions: Each submission must include the Agency name and the 
docket number(s) 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., e.t., 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 self-addressed, stamped envelope or postcard 
or print the acknowledgement page that appears after submitting 
comments online.
    Privacy Act: In accordance with 5 U.S.C. 553(c), DOT solicits 
comments

[[Page 13044]]

from the public to better inform its rulemaking process. DOT posts 
these comments, without edit, including any personal information the 
commenter provides, to https://www.regulations.gov, as described in the 
system of records notice (DOT/ALL-14 FDMS), which can be reviewed at 
https://www.dot.gov/privacy.

I. Background

    Under 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, FMCSA may grant an exemption 
for two years 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 two-year period.
    The physical qualification standard for drivers regarding vision 
found in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10) states that a person is physically 
qualified to drive a CMV if that person:

    Has distant visual acuity of at least 20/40 (Snellen) in each 
eye without corrective lenses or visual acuity separately corrected 
to 20/40 (Snellen) or better with corrective lenses, distant 
binocular acuity of at least 20/40 (Snellen) in both eyes with or 
without corrective lenses, field of vision of at least 70[deg] in 
the horizontal meridian in each eye, and the ability to recognize 
the colors of traffic signals and devices showing red, green, and 
amber.

    The 62 individuals listed in this notice have requested renewal of 
their exemptions from the vision standard in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10), in 
accordance with FMCSA procedures. Accordingly, FMCSA has evaluated 
these applications for renewal on their merits and decided to extend 
each exemption for a renewable two-year period

II. Request for Comments

    Interested parties or organizations possessing information that 
would otherwise show that any, or all, of these drivers are not 
currently achieving the statutory level of safety should immediately 
notify FMCSA. The Agency will evaluate any adverse evidence submitted 
and, if safety is being compromised or if continuation of the exemption 
would not be consistent with the goals and objectives of 49 U.S.C. 
31136(e) and 31315, FMCSA will take immediate steps to revoke the 
exemption of a driver.

III. Basis for Renewing Exemptions

    Under 49 U.S.C. 31315(b)(1), an exemption may be granted for no 
longer than two years from its approval date and may be renewed upon 
application. In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, each of 
the 62 applicants has satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an 
exemption from the vision requirement (65 FR 45817; 65 FR 66286; 65 FR 
77066; 65 FR 78256; 66 FR 13825; 66 FR 16311; 67 FR 71610; 67 FR 76439; 
68 FR 10298; 68 FR 10300; 68 FR 13360; 69 FR 33997; 69 FR 61292; 70 FR 
7545; 70 FR 7546; 70 FR 12265; 71 FR 14566; 71 FR 30227; 71 FR 32183; 
71 FR 41310; 71 FR 55820; 71 FR 63379; 71 FR 63380; 72 FR 180; 72 FR 
1050; 72 FR 7111; 72 FR 7812; 72 FR 9397; 72 FR 11426; 73 FR 27014; 73 
FR 36955; 73 FR 51689; 73 FR 61922; 73 FR 61925; 73 FR 63047; 73 FR 
74563; 73 FR 75803; 73 FR 78422; 74 FR 6209; 74 FR 6211; 74 FR 6212; 74 
FR 6689; 74 FR 8302; 75 FR 36778; 75 FR 54958; 75 FR 59327; 75 FR 
70078; 75 FR 77942; 75 FR 77949; 75 FR 79083; 76 FR 4413; 76 FR 5425; 
76 FR 9859; 76 FR 9861; 76 FR 9865; 76 FR 11215; 77 FR 48590; 77 FR 
68199; 77 FR 68200; 77 FR 70534; 77 FR 74273; 77 FR 74731; 78 FR 10250; 
78 FR 11731; 78 FR 12811; 78 FR 12813; 78 FR 12817; 78 FR 12822; 78 FR 
797; 78 FR 1919; 78 FR 8689; 78 FR 9772; 78 FR 14410; 79 FR 58856; 79 
FR 59357; 79 FR 65760; 79 FR 72754; 79 FR 73397; 79 FR 73687; 80 FR 
3305; 80 FR 3308; 80 FR 3723; 80 FR 6162; 80 FR 7678; 80 FR 7679; 80 FR 
8751; 80 FR 9304; 80 FR 15859; 80 FR 20562). They have submitted 
evidence showing that the vision in the better eye continues to meet 
the requirement specified at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10) and that the vision 
impairment is stable. In addition, a review of each record of safety 
while driving with the respective vision deficiencies over the past two 
years indicates each applicant continues to meet the vision exemption 
requirements. These factors provide an adequate basis for predicting 
each driver's ability to continue to drive safely in interstate 
commerce. Therefore, FMCSA concludes that extending the exemption for 
each renewal applicant for a period of two years is likely to achieve a 
level of safety equal to that existing without the exemption.
    In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, the following 
groups of drivers received renewed exemptions in the month of July and 
are discussed below:
    As of March 1, 2017, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 
31315, the following 16 individuals have satisfied the conditions for 
obtaining a renewed exemption from the vision requirements (69 FR 
33997; 69 FR 61292; 71 FR 32183; 71 FR 41310; 71 FR 55820; 71 FR 63379; 
71 FR 63380; 72 FR 180; 72 FR 1050; 72 FR 9397; 73 FR 36955; 73 FR 
61922; 73 FR 61925; 73 FR 74563; 73 FR 75803; 73 FR 78422; 74 FR 6209; 
74 FR 6211; 75 FR 36778; 75 FR 54958; 75 FR 59327; 75 FR 70078; 75 FR 
77949; 75 FR 79083; 76 FR 4413; 76 FR 9865; 77 FR 48590; 77 FR 68199; 
77 FR 68200; 77 FR 70534; 77 FR 74273; 77 FR 74731; 78 FR 797; 78 FR 
9772; 78 FR 11731; 78 FR 12811; 78 FR 12813; 78 FR 12817; 79 FR 58856; 
79 FR 59357; 79 FR 65760; 79 FR 72754; 79 FR 73397; 79 FR 73687; 80 FR 
3305; 80 FR 3308; 80 FR 3723; 80 FR 8751; 80 GT 9304):

Jawad K. Al-Shaibani (WA)
Keith E. Breeding (IN)
Robert M. Cassell, Jr. (NC)
Steven J. Clark (GA)
Joseph Colecchi (PA)
Thomas A. Crowell (NC)
David M. Hagadorn (NJ)
Ricky G. Jacks (AL)
William D. Koiner (TX)
David S. Matheny (WA)
Elmer R. Miller (IL)
Jeffrey L. Olson (MN)
Randall S. Surber (WV)
Ernest W. Waff (VA)
Curtis E. Way (TX)
Patricia A. White (IL)

    The drivers were included in one of the following dockets: Docket 
Nos. FMCSA-2004-17984; FMCSA-2006-24783; FMCSA-2006-25246; FMCSA-2006-
26066; FMCSA-2008-0292; FMCSA-2008-0340; FMCSA-2010-0201; FMCSA-2012-
0337; FMCSA-2012-0338; FMCSA-2012-0339; FMCSA-2014-0296; FMCSA-2014-
0299. Their exemptions are effective as of March 1, 2017, and will 
expire on March 1, 2019.
    As of March 4, 2017, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 
31315, the following 8 individuals have satisfied the conditions for 
obtaining a renewed exemption from the vision requirements (65 FR 
45817; 65 FR 77066; 67 FR 71610; 67 FR 76439; 68 FR 10298; 70 FR 7545; 
72 FR 7812; 74 FR 6689; 76 FR 9859; 78 FR 8689; 80 FR 7678):

Kirk G. Braegger (UT)
Ambrosio Calles (NM)
Harry P. Henning (PA)
Christopher L. Humphries (TX)
Ralph J. Miles (OR)
Stanley B. Salkowski, III (PA)
Michael G. Thomas (PA)
William H. Twardus (DE)

    The drivers were included on the following dockets: Docket No. 
FMCSA-2000-7363; FMCSA-2002-13411. Their exemptions are effective as of 
March 4, 2017, and will expire on March 4, 2019.
    As of March 7, 2017, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 
31315, the following 23 individuals have satisfied the conditions for 
obtaining a renewed exemption from the vision requirements (65 FR 
66286; 66 FR 13825; 68 FR 10300; 70 FR 7546; 72

[[Page 13045]]

FR 180; 72 FR 7111; 72 FR 9397; 74 FR 6211; 74 FR 6212; 75 FR 77942; 76 
FR 5425; 76 FR 9861; 78 FR 10250; 80 FR 6162; 80 FR 7679; 80 FR 20562):

Jason P. Atwater (UT)
Barry W. Borger (PA)
William W. Dugger (KY)
Steven D. Ellsworth (IL)
Glen T. Garrabrant (NJ)
Richard A. Guthrie (MT)
Abdalla M. Jalili (IL)
Alan L. Johnston (IL)
David M. Krause (WI)
Stephen C. Martin (PA)
James E. Menz (NY)
Ronald M. Metzger (NY)
Gerald D. Milner (IL)
Ali Nimer (IL)
Richard A. Pierce (MO)
Rance A. Powell (AL)
Shannon E. Rasmussen (WY)
Richard P. Rebel (ND)
Mustafa Shahadeh (OH)
Charles P. Smith (MO)
Timothy R. Tedford (IL)
Melvin L. Vaughn (WI)
Rick L. Wood (PA)

    The drivers were included on the following dockets: Docket No. 
FMCSA-2000-7918; FMCSA-2006-25246; FMCSA-2010-0385; FMCSA-2014-0301. 
Their exemptions are effective as of March 7, 2017, and will expire on 
March 7, 2019.
    As of March 23, 2017, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 
31315, the following 15 individuals have satisfied the conditions for 
obtaining a renewed exemption from the vision requirements (65 FR 
66286; 65 FR 78256; 66 FR 13825; 66 FR 16311; 67 FR 76439; 68 FR 10298; 
68 FR 13360; 70 FR 7545; 70 FR 12265; 71 FR 14566; 71 FR 30227; 72 FR 
180; 72 FR 7812; 72 FR 9397; 72 FR 11426; 73 FR 27014; 73 FR 51689; 73 
FR 63047; 73 FR 75803; 74 FR 6209; 74 FR 6689; 74 FR 8302; 75 FR 77942; 
75 FR 77949; 76 FR 4413; 76 FR 5425; 76 FR 9859; 76 FR 9861; 76 FR 
11215; 78 FR 8689; 78 FR 12822; 78 FR 14410; 80 FR 15859):

Howard K. Bradley (VA)
Willie Burnett, Jr. (FL)
Marcus L. Conner (TX)
Thomas G. Danclovic (MO)
Donald K. Driscoll (MA)
William G. Holland (AR)
Gerald D. Larson
Thomas F. Marczewski (WI)
Roy E. Mathews (FL)
James T. McGraw, Jr. (PA)
Robert S. Metcalf (AZ)
Bobby G. Pool, Sr. (TX)
Steve A. Reece (TN)
Jeremichael Steele (NC)
Wade D. Taylor (MO)

    The drivers were included on the following dockets: Docket No. 
FMCSA-2000-7918; FMCSA-2000-8398; FMCSA-2002-13411; FMCSA-2006-24015; 
FMCSA-2006-25246; FMCSA-2008-0266; FMCSA-2008-0340; FMCSA-2010-0385. 
Their exemptions are effective as of March 23, 2017, and will expire on 
March 23, 2019.

Conditions and Requirements

    The exemptions are extended subject to the following conditions: 
(1) Each driver must undergo an annual physical examination (a) by an 
ophthalmologist or optometrist who attests that the vision in the 
better eye continues to meet the requirements in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10), 
and (b) by a certified Medical Examiner, as defined by 49 CFR 390.5, 
who attests that the driver is otherwise physically qualified under 49 
CFR 391.41; (2) each driver must provide a copy of the 
ophthalmologist's or optometrist's report to the Medical Examiner at 
the time of the annual medical examination; and (3) each driver must 
provide a copy of the annual medical certification to the employer for 
retention in the driver's qualification file and retains a copy of the 
certification on his/her person while driving for presentation to a 
duly authorized Federal, State, or local enforcement official. The 
exemption will be rescinded if: (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.

IV. Preemption

    During the period the exemption is in effect, no State shall 
enforce any law or regulation that conflicts with this exemption with 
respect to a person operating under the exemption.

VI. Conclusion

    Based upon its evaluation of the 62 exemption applications, FMCSA 
renews the exemptions of the aforementioned drivers from the vision 
requirement in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10), subject to the requirements cited 
above (49 CFR 391.64(b)). In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 
31315, each exemption will be valid for two years unless revoked 
earlier by FMCSA.

    Issued on: February 28, 2017.
Larry W. Minor,
Associate Administrator for Policy.
[FR Doc. 2017-04527 Filed 3-7-17; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-EX-P
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