Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision, 47038-47042 [2019-19266]

Download as PDF 47038 Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 173 / Friday, September 6, 2019 / Notices Don Darbyshire (IA) Todd Davis (WI) Daniel Dellaserra (CA) Charles Gray (OK) Eric Hilmer (WI) David Kietzman (WI) Dennis Klamm (MN) William Rainer, III (TX) Brian Wiggins (ID) The drivers were included in docket number FMCSA–2010–0203; FMCSA– 2011–0389; FMCSA–2012–0094; FMCSA–2012–0294; FMCSA–2014– 0381; FMCSA–2014–0382; FMCSA– 2015–0116; FMCSA–2015–0117. Their exemptions are applicable as of August 13, 2019, and will expire on August 13, 2021. V. Conditions and Requirements The exemptions are extended subject to the following conditions: (1) Each driver must remain seizure-free and maintain a stable treatment during the 2-year exemption period; (2) each driver must submit annual reports from their treating physicians attesting to the stability of treatment and that the driver has remained seizure-free; (3) each driver must undergo an annual medical examination by a certified ME, as defined by § 390.5; and (4) each driver must provide a copy of the annual medical certification to the employer for retention in the driver’s qualification file, or keep a copy of his/her driver’s qualification file if he/she is selfemployed. The driver must also have a copy of the exemption when 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 The exemption will be rescinded if: (1) The person fails to comply with the terms and conditions of the exemption; (2) the exemption has resulted in a lower level of safety than was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(b). jspears on DSK3GMQ082PROD with NOTICES VI. 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. VII. Conclusion Based on its evaluation of the 14 exemption applications, FMCSA renews the exemptions of the aforementioned drivers from the epilepsy and seizure disorders prohibition in § 391.41(b)(8). In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315(b), each exemption will be valid for 2 years unless revoked earlier by FMCSA. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:53 Sep 05, 2019 Jkt 247001 Issued on: August 29, 2019. Larry W. Minor, Associate Administrator for Policy. [FR Doc. 2019–19264 Filed 9–5–19; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–EX–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration [Docket No. FMCSA–1998–4334; FMCSA– 1999–5578; FMCSA–2001–9561; FMCSA– 2003–14504; FMCSA–2003–15268; FMCSA– 2004–19477; FMCSA–2005–20560; FMCSA– 2005–21254; FMCSA–2006–24783; FMCSA– 2006–26066; FMCSA–2007–27333; FMCSA– 2007–27515; FMCSA–2007–27897; FMCSA– 2007–28695; FMCSA–2008–0292; FMCSA– 2009–0086; FMCSA–2009–0154; FMCSA– 2010–0354; FMCSA–2011–0010; FMCSA– 2011–0057; FMCSA–2011–0092; FMCSA– 2011–0102; FMCSA–2011–0124; FMCSA– 2011–0140; FMCSA–2011–0141; FMCSA– 2012–0338; FMCSA–2013–0021; FMCSA– 2013–0025; FMCSA–2013–0027; FMCSA– 2013–0028; FMCSA–2013–0029; FMCSA– 2013–0030; FMCSA–2014–0011; FMCSA– 2014–0305; FMCSA–2015–0048; FMCSA– 2015–0052; FMCSA–2015–0053; FMCSA– 2015–0055; FMCSA–2016–0033; FMCSA– 2016–0213; FMCSA–2017–0017; FMCSA– 2017–0020; FMCSA–2017–0022] 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 104 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 requirements in one eye. DATES: Each group of renewed exemptions were applicable 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 October 7, 2019. SUMMARY: You may submit comments identified by the Federal Docket Management System (FDMS) Docket No. FMCSA–1998–4334, Docket No. FMCSA–1999–5578, Docket No. FMCSA–2001–9561, Docket No. FMCSA–2003–14504, Docket No. FMCSA–2003–15268, Docket No. FMCSA–2004–19477, Docket No. FMCSA–2005–20560, Docket No. FMCSA–2005–21254, Docket No. ADDRESSES: PO 00000 Frm 00107 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 FMCSA–2006–24783, Docket No. FMCSA–2006–26066, Docket No. FMCSA–2007–27333, Docket No. FMCSA–2007–27515, Docket No. FMCSA–2007–27897, Docket No. FMCSA–2007–28695, Docket No. FMCSA–2008–0292, Docket No. FMCSA–2009–0086, Docket No. FMCSA–2009–0154, Docket No. FMCSA–2010–0354, Docket No. FMCSA–2011–0010, Docket No. FMCSA–2011–0057, Docket No. FMCSA–2011–0092, Docket No. FMCSA–2011–0102, Docket No. FMCSA–2011–0124, Docket No. FMCSA–2011–0140, Docket No. FMCSA–2011–0141, Docket No. FMCSA–2012–0338, Docket No. FMCSA–2013–0021, Docket No. FMCSA–2013–0025, Docket No. FMCSA–2013–0027, Docket No. FMCSA–2013–0028, Docket No. FMCSA–2013–0029, Docket No. FMCSA–2013–0030, Docket No. FMCSA–2014–0011, Docket No. FMCSA–2014–0305, Docket No. FMCSA–2015–0048, Docket No. FMCSA–2015–0052, Docket No. FMCSA–2015–0053, Docket No. FMCSA–2015–0055, Docket No. FMCSA–2016–0033, Docket No. FMCSA–2016–0213, Docket No. FMCSA–2017–0017, Docket No. FMCSA–2017–0020; or Docket No. FMCSA–2017–0022 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., ET, Monday through Friday, except Federal Holidays. • Fax: (202) 493–2251. To avoid duplication, please use only one of these four methods. See the ‘‘Public Participation’’ portion of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section for instructions on submitting comments 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., ET, Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. If you have questions regarding viewing or submitting E:\FR\FM\06SEN1.SGM 06SEN1 Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 173 / Friday, September 6, 2019 / Notices material to the docket, contact Docket Services, (202) 366–9826. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: jspears on DSK3GMQ082PROD with NOTICES I. Public Participation A. Submitting Comments If you submit a comment, please include the docket number for this notice (Docket No. FMCSA–1998–4334; FMCSA–1999–5578; FMCSA–2001– 9561; FMCSA–2003–14504; FMCSA– 2003–15268; FMCSA–2004–19477; FMCSA–2005–20560; FMCSA–2005– 21254; FMCSA–2006–24783; FMCSA– 2006–26066; FMCSA–2007–27333; FMCSA–2007–27515; FMCSA–2007– 27897; FMCSA–2007–28695; FMCSA– 2008–0292; FMCSA–2009–0086; FMCSA–2009–0154; FMCSA–2010– 0354; FMCSA–2011–0010; FMCSA– 2011–0057; FMCSA–2011–0092; FMCSA–2011–0102; FMCSA–2011– 0124; FMCSA–2011–0140; FMCSA– 2011–0141; FMCSA–2012–0338; FMCSA–2013–0021; FMCSA–2013– 0025; FMCSA–2013–0027; FMCSA– 2013–0028; FMCSA–2013–0029; FMCSA–2013–0030; FMCSA–2014– 0011; FMCSA–2014–0305; FMCSA– 2015–0048; FMCSA–2015–0052; FMCSA–2015–0053; FMCSA–2015– 0055; FMCSA–2016–0033; FMCSA– 2016–0213; FMCSA–2017–0017; FMCSA–2017–0020; or FMCSA–2017– 0022), indicate the specific section of this document to which each comment applies, and provide a reason for each suggestion or recommendation. You may submit your comments and material online or by fax, mail, or hand delivery, but please use only one of these means. FMCSA recommends that you include your name and a mailing address, an email address, or a phone number in the body of your document so that FMCSA can contact you if there are questions regarding your submission. To submit your comment online, go to https://www.regulations.gov, put the docket number, FMCSA–1998–4334; FMCSA–1999–5578; FMCSA–2001– 9561; FMCSA–2003–14504; FMCSA– 2003–15268; FMCSA–2004–19477; FMCSA–2005–20560; FMCSA–2005– 21254; FMCSA–2006–24783; FMCSA– 2006–26066; FMCSA–2007–27333; FMCSA–2007–27515; FMCSA–2007– 27897; FMCSA–2007–28695; FMCSA– 2008–0292; FMCSA–2009–0086; FMCSA–2009–0154; FMCSA–2010– 0354; FMCSA–2011–0010; FMCSA– 2011–0057; FMCSA–2011–0092; FMCSA–2011–0102; FMCSA–2011– 0124; FMCSA–2011–0140; FMCSA– 2011–0141; FMCSA–2012–0338; FMCSA–2013–0021; FMCSA–2013– 0025; FMCSA–2013–0027; FMCSA– VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:53 Sep 05, 2019 Jkt 247001 2013–0028; FMCSA–2013–0029; FMCSA–2013–0030; FMCSA–2014– 0011; FMCSA–2014–0305; FMCSA– 2015–0048; FMCSA–2015–0052; FMCSA–2015–0053; FMCSA–2015– 0055; FMCSA–2016–0033; FMCSA– 2016–0213; FMCSA–2017–0017; FMCSA–2017–0020; or FMCSA–2017– 0022, in the keyword box, and click ‘‘Search.’’ When the new screen appears, click on the ‘‘Comment Now!’’ button and type your comment into the text box on the following screen. Choose whether you are submitting your comment as an individual or on behalf of a third party and then submit. If you submit your comments by mail or hand delivery, submit them in an unbound format, no larger than 81⁄2 by 11 inches, suitable for copying and electronic filing. If you submit comments by mail and would like to know that they reached the facility, please enclose a stamped, self-addressed postcard or envelope. FMCSA will consider all comments and material received during the comment period. B. Viewing Documents and Comments To view comments, as well as any documents mentioned in this notice as being available in the docket, go to https://www.regulations.gov. Insert the docket number, FMCSA–1998–4334; FMCSA–1999–5578; FMCSA–2001– 9561; FMCSA–2003–14504; FMCSA– 2003–15268; FMCSA–2004–19477; FMCSA–2005–20560; FMCSA–2005– 21254; FMCSA–2006–24783; FMCSA– 2006–26066; FMCSA–2007–27333; FMCSA–2007–27515; FMCSA–2007– 27897; FMCSA–2007–28695; FMCSA– 2008–0292; FMCSA–2009–0086; FMCSA–2009–0154; FMCSA–2010– 0354; FMCSA–2011–0010; FMCSA– 2011–0057; FMCSA–2011–0092; FMCSA–2011–0102; FMCSA–2011– 0124; FMCSA–2011–0140; FMCSA– 2011–0141; FMCSA–2012–0338; FMCSA–2013–0021; FMCSA–2013– 0025; FMCSA–2013–0027; FMCSA– 2013–0028; FMCSA–2013–0029; FMCSA–2013–0030; FMCSA–2014– 0011; FMCSA–2014–0305; FMCSA– 2015–0048; FMCSA–2015–0052; FMCSA–2015–0053; FMCSA–2015– 0055; FMCSA–2016–0033; FMCSA– 2016–0213; FMCSA–2017–0017; FMCSA–2017–0020; or FMCSA–2017– 0022, in the keyword box, and click ‘‘Search.’’ Next, click the ‘‘Open Docket Folder’’ button and choose the document to review. If you do not have access to the internet, you may view the docket online by visiting the Docket Management Facility in Room W12–140 on the ground floor of the DOT West Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, PO 00000 Frm 00108 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 47039 Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., ET, Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. C. Privacy Act In accordance with 5 U.S.C. 553(c), DOT solicits comments from the public to better inform its rulemaking process. DOT posts these comments, without edit, including any personal information the commenter provides, to www.regulations.gov, as described in the system of records notice (DOT/ALL– 14 FDMS), which can be reviewed at www.dot.gov/privacy. II. Background Under 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315(b), FMCSA may grant an exemption from the FMCSRs for no longer than a 5-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 5-year period. FMCSA grants medical exemptions from the FMCSRs for a 2year period to align with the maximum duration of a driver’s medical certification. 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 a 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 104 individuals listed in this notice have requested renewal of their exemptions from the vision standard in § 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 2-year period. III. 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 E:\FR\FM\06SEN1.SGM 06SEN1 47040 Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 173 / Friday, September 6, 2019 / Notices jspears on DSK3GMQ082PROD with NOTICES with the goals and objectives of 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315(b), FMCSA will take immediate steps to revoke the exemption of a driver. IV. Basis for Renewing Exemptions In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315(b), each of the 104 applicants has satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an exemption from the vision standard (see 63 FR 66226; 64 FR 16517; 64 FR 27027; 64 FR 51568; 66 FR 30502; 66 FR 41654; 66 FR 41656; 66 FR 48504; 68 FR 19598; 68 FR 33570; 68 FR 37197; 68 FR 44837; 68 FR 48989; 68 FR 54775; 69 FR 64806; 70 FR 2705; 70 FR 17504; 70 FR 25878; 70 FR 30997; 70 FR 30999; 70 FR 41811; 70 FR 42615; 70 FR 46567; 70 FR 53412; 71 FR 32183; 71 FR 41310; 71 FR 63379; 72 FR 1051; 72 FR 5489; 72 FR 12666; 72 FR 21313; 72 FR 25831; 72 FR 27624; 72 FR 28093; 72 FR 32703; 72 FR 39879; 72 FR 40360; 72 FR 40362; 72 FR 46261; 72 FR 52419; 72 FR 54972; 72 FR 62896; 73 FR 61922; 73 FR 61925; 73 FR 74565; 73 FR 78423; 74 FR 15586; 74 FR 19267; 74 FR 19270; 74 FR 20523; 74 FR 23472; 74 FR 26464; 74 FR 28094; 74 FR 34394; 74 FR 34395; 74 FR 34632; 74 FR 37295; 74 FR 41971; 74 FR 43221; 74 FR 43223; 74 FR 48343; 75 FR 72863; 75 FR 77949; 75 FR 79083; 76 FR 2190; 76 FR 9856; 76 FR 17483; 76 FR 18824; 76 FR 20076; 76 FR 21796; 76 FR 25762; 76 FR 25766; 76 FR 29022; 76 FR 29024; 76 FR 32017; 76 FR 34135; 76 FR 34136; 76 FR 37169; 76 FR 37885; 76 FR 40445; 76 FR 44082; 76 FR 44652; 76 FR 49531; 76 FR 50318; 76 FR 53708; 76 FR 53710; 76 FR 54530; 76 FR 55463; 76 FR 55469; 77 FR 68202; 77 FR 74273; 77 FR 74731; 77 FR 74734; 78 FR 10251; 78 FR 12811; 78 FR 16762; 78 FR 20376; 78 FR 20379; 78 FR 22596; 78 FR 24300; 78 FR 24798; 78 FR 26106; 78 FR 27281; 78 FR 32708; 78 FR 34140; 78 FR 34141; 78 FR 34143; 78 FR 37270; 78 FR 41188; 78 FR 41975; 78 FR 46407; 78 FR 51268; 78 FR 52602; 78 FR 56986; 78 FR 56993; 78 FR 78477; 79 FR 4531; 79 FR 24298; 79 FR 56099; 79 FR 65759; 79 FR 70928; 79 FR 73686; 79 FR 73687; 80 FR 15863; 80 FR 16502; 80 FR 18696; 80 FR 22773; 80 FR 26139; 80 FR 26320; 80 FR 29149; 80 FR 29154; 80 FR 31640; 80 FR 33007; 80 FR 33009; 80 FR 35699; 80 FR 36395; 80 FR 36398; 80 FR 37718; 80 FR 40122; 80 FR 44185; 80 FR 44188; 80 FR 45573; 80 FR 48402; 80 FR 48404; 80 FR 48409; 80 FR 48411; 80 FR 49302; 80 FR 50915; 80 FR 50917; 80 FR 53383; 80 FR 62161; 80 FR 62163; 81 FR 59266; 81 FR 96165; 82 FR 13187; 82 FR 15277; 82 FR 18949; 82 FR 20962; 82 FR 22379; 82 FR 23712; 82 FR 32919; 82 FR 33542; 82 FR 34564; 82 FR 37499; 82 FR 37504; 82 FR 47269; 82 FR 47309; 83 FR 4537). They have submitted evidence showing that the vision in the better eye continues to meet the VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:53 Sep 05, 2019 Jkt 247001 requirement specified at § 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 2 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 2 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(b), the following groups of drivers received renewed exemptions in the month of September and are discussed below. As of September 6, 2019, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, the following 49 individuals have satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an exemption from the vision requirement in the FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers (66 FR 30502; 66 FR 41654; 68 FR 37197; 68 FR 44837; 68 FR 48989; 69 FR 64806; 70 FR 2705; 70 FR 17504; 70 FR 30997; 70 FR 41811; 70 FR 42615; 71 FR 32183; 71 FR 41310; 71 FR 63379; 72 FR 1051; 72 FR 5489; 72 FR 12666; 72 FR 21313; 72 FR 25831; 72 FR 27624; 72 FR 32703; 72 FR 40360; 72 FR 40362; 73 FR 61922; 73 FR 61925; 73 FR 74565; 73 FR 78423; 74 FR 15586; 74 FR 19267; 74 FR 19270; 74 FR 23472; 74 FR 26464; 74 FR 28094; 74 FR 34395; 74 FR 34632; 75 FR 72863; 75 FR 77949; 75 FR 79083; 76 FR 2190; 76 FR 9856; 76 FR 17483; 76 FR 18824; 76 FR 20076; 76 FR 21796; 76 FR 25762; 76 FR 25766; 76 FR 29022; 76 FR 29024; 76 FR 32017; 76 FR 34135; 76 FR 37169; 76 FR 37885; 76 FR 44082; 76 FR 44652; 76 FR 49531; 76 FR 50318; 77 FR 68202; 77 FR 74273; 77 FR 74731; 77 FR 74734; 78 FR 10251; 78 FR 12811; 78 FR 16762; 78 FR 20376; 78 FR 20379; 78 FR 22596; 78 FR 24300; 78 FR 24798; 78 FR 26106; 78 FR 27281; 78 FR 32708; 78 FR 34140; 78 FR 34141; 78 FR 34143; 78 FR 37270; 78 FR 41188; 78 FR 46407; 78 FR 51268; 78 FR 52602; 78 FR 56993; 79 FR 4531; 79 FR 24298; 79 FR 56099; 79 FR 65759; 79 FR 70928; 79 FR 73686; 79 FR 73687; 80 FR 15863; 80 FR 16502; 80 FR 18696; 80 FR 22773; 80 FR 26139; 80 FR 26320; 80 FR 29149; 80 FR 29154; 80 FR 31640; 80 FR 33007; 80 FR 33009; 80 FR 35699; 80 FR 36395; 80 FR 36398; 80 FR 37718; 80 FR 40122; 80 FR 44185; 80 FR 44188; 80 FR 45573; 80 FR 48404; 80 FR 48409; 80 FR 50917; 80 FR 62161; 80 FR 62163; 81 FR 59266; 81 FR 96165; 82 FR 13187; 82 FR 15277; 82 FR 18949; 82 FR 20962; 82 FR 22379; 82 FR 23712; 82 FR 32919; PO 00000 Frm 00109 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 82 FR 33542; 82 FR 34564; 82 FR 37499; 82 FR 47269; 83 FR 4537): Jimmie L. Blue (MT) Wilfred J. Brinkman (OH) Dale E. Bunke (ID) Ralph H. Bushman (IL) Roger C. Carson (IN) Daniel G. Cohen (VT) Adan Cortes-Juarez (WA) Jeffrey W. Cotner (OR) Timothy J. Curran (CA) Joseph Cuthbert (PA) Walter C. Dean, Sr. (AL) John C. Dimassa (WA) Sonya Duff (IN) Mark J. Dufresne (NH) Dennis C. Edler (PA) Jonathan G. Estabrook (MA) Eric M. Grayson (KY) William K. Gullett (KY) Anthony Hall (LA) Paul M. Hinkson (TN) Wesley D. Hogue (AR) Roy W. Houser II (TN) John T. Johnson (NM) Jay D. Labrum (UT) Anthony Luciano (CT) Duffy P. Metrejean, Jr. (LA) Brian P. Millard (SC) Vincent R. Neville (MN) Willie L. Nez (UT) Gonzalo Pena (FL) Robert D. Porter (CA) Dennis M. Prevas (WI) Steven A. Proctor (TX) William A. Ramirez Vasquez (CA) Steven P. Richter (MN) Jonathan C. Rollings (IA) Salvador Sanchez (CA) Dennis J. Smith (CO) Hoyt V. Smith (SC) Rodney W. Sukalski (MN) Sukru Tamirci (NY) Lee T. Taylor (FL) Michael J. Thane (OH) Jon C. Thompson (TX) Larry A. Tidwell (MO) Harlon C. VanBlaricom (MN) Richard A. Westfall (OH) Jeff L. Wheeler (IA) Tommy N. Whitworth (TX) The drivers were included in docket numbers FMCSA–2001–9561; FMCSA– 2003–15268; FMCSA–2004–19477; FMCSA–2005–20560; FMCSA–2006– 24783; FMCSA–2006–26066; FMCSA– 2007–27333; FMCSA–2007–27515; FMCSA–2008–0292; FMCSA–2009– 0086; FMCSA–2010–0354; FMCSA– 2011–0010; FMCSA–2011–0057; FMCSA–2011–0092; FMCSA–2011– 0102; FMCSA–2011–0140; FMCSA– 2012–0338; FMCSA–2013–0021; FMCSA–2013–0025; FMCSA–2013– 0027; FMCSA–2013–0028; FMCSA– 2013–0029; FMCSA–2014–0011; FMCSA–2014–0305; FMCSA–2015– 0048; FMCSA–2015–0052; FMCSA– E:\FR\FM\06SEN1.SGM 06SEN1 jspears on DSK3GMQ082PROD with NOTICES Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 173 / Friday, September 6, 2019 / Notices 2015–0053; FMCSA–2015–0055; FMCSA–2016–0033; FMCSA–2016– 0213; FMCSA–2017–0017; FMCSA– 2017–0020. Their exemptions are applicable as of September 6, 2019, and will expire on September 6, 2021. As of September 7, 2019, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, the following three individuals have satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an exemption from the vision requirement in the FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers (76 FR 34136; 76 FR 37169; 76 FR 50318; 76 FR 55463; 78 FR 78477; 80 FR 50915; 83 FR 4537): Charles E. Carter (MI); James A. Ellis (NY); and Peter M. Shirk (PA) The drivers were included in docket numbers FMCSA–2011–0124; FMCSA– 2011–0140. Their exemptions are applicable as of September 7, 2019, and will expire on September 7, 2021. As of September 12, 2019, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, the following 13 individuals have satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an exemption from the vision requirement in the FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers (82 FR 37501; 82 FR 47309): Eddie S. Bennett (MI) David A. Cooper (WV) Nicholas M. Deschepper (SD) John F. Ferguson (PA) Dominick P. Fittipaldi (PA) Louis R. LeMonds (WA) Jonathan Marin (NJ) Mark E. McNaughton (IA) Louis Neofotistos (MA) James R. Rupert (CA) Christopher J. Schmidt (WI) Greg C. Stilson (WY) Eloy Zuniga (TX) The drivers were included in docket number FMCSA–2017–0022. Their exemptions are applicable as of September 12, 2019, and will expire on September 12, 2021. As of September 13, 2019, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, the following eight individuals have satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an exemption from the vision requirement in the FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers (63 FR 66226; 64 FR 16517; 66 FR 41656; 68 FR 44837; 70 FR 41811; 72 FR 39879; 72 FR 40362; 72 FR 52419; 74 FR 41971; 76 FR 54530; 78 FR 78477; 80 FR 48402; 83 FR 4537): John A. Bridges (GA) Brian W. Curtis (IL) Tomie L. Estes (MO) Ray C. Johnson (AR) James J. Mitchell (NC) Joshua R. Perkins (ID) Craig R. Saari (MN) Jerry L. Schroder (IL) The drivers were included in docket numbers FMCSA–1998–4334; FMCSA– VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:53 Sep 05, 2019 Jkt 247001 2007–27897. Their exemptions are applicable as of September 13, 2019, and will expire on September 13, 2021. As of September 16, 2019, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, the following seven individuals have satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an exemption from the vision requirement in the FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers (78 FR 27281; 78 FR 34143; 78 FR 41188; 78 FR 41975; 78 FR 52602; 78 FR 56986; 80 FR 48411; 83 FR 4537): Carl Block (NY) Christopher Brim (TN) Phyllis Dodson (IN) Juan M. Guerrero (TX) Berl C. Jennings (VA) Vincent Marsee, Sr. (NC) David Snellings (MD) The drivers were included in docket numbers FMCSA–2013–0030; FMCSA– 2013–0028; FMCSA–2013–0029. Their exemptions are applicable as of September 16, 2019, and will expire on September 16, 2021. As of September 22, 2019, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, the following 13 individuals have satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an exemption from the vision requirement in the FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers (68 FR 19598; 68 FR 33570; 70 FR 17504; 70 FR 25878; 70 FR 30997; 72 FR 28093; 72 FR 40362; 74 FR 20523; 74 FR 34394; 74 FR 37295; 74 FR 48343; 76 FR 34136; 76 FR 53708; 76 FR 54530; 76 FR 55463; 78 FR 78477; 80 FR 49302; 83 FR 4537): Michael K. Adams (OH) Eleazar R. Balli (TX) Darrell W. Bayless (TX) Clifford D. Carpenter (MO) Cecil A. Evey (ID) Kamal A. Gaddah (OH) Eric M. Kousgaard (NE) Samuel A. Miller (IN) Larry T. Rogers (IL) Marcial Soto-Rivas (OR) Boyd D. Stamey (NC) David C. Sybesma (ID) Matthew K. Tucker (MN) The drivers were included in docket numbers FMCSA–2003–14504; FMCSA–2005–20560; FMCSA–2009– 0154; FMCSA–2011–0124. Their exemptions are applicable as of September 22, 2019, and will expire on September 22, 2021. As of September 23, 2019, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, the following nine individuals have satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an exemption from the vision requirement in the FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers (64 FR 27027; 64 FR 51568; 66 FR 48504; 68 FR 19598; 68 FR 33570; 68 FR 37197; 68 FR 48989; PO 00000 Frm 00110 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 47041 68 FR 54775; 70 FR 30999; 70 FR 42615; 70 FR 46567; 70 FR 53412; 72 FR 39879; 72 FR 52419; 72 FR 62896; 74 FR 43221; 76 FR 53708; 78 FR 78477; 80 FR 53383; 83 FR 4537): Linda L. Billings (NV) Weldon R. Evans (OH) Orasio Garcia (TX) Leslie W. Good (OR) James P. Guth (PA) Gregory K. Lilly (WV) Kenneth A. Reddick (PA) Leonard Rice, Jr. (GA) James T. Sullivan (KY) The drivers were included in docket numbers FMCSA–1999–5578; FMCSA– 2003–14504; FMCSA–2003–15268; FMCSA–2005–21254; FMCSA–2007– 27897. Their exemptions are applicable as of September 23, 2019, and will expire on September 23, 2021. As of September 27, 2019, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, the following two individuals have satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an exemption from the vision requirement in the FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers (72 FR 46261; 72 FR 54972; 74 FR 43223; 76 FR 40445; 76 FR 53710; 76 FR 55469; 78 FR 78477; 83 FR 4537): Joe M. Flores (NM); and Kenneth D. Perkins (NC) The drivers were included in docket numbers FMCSA–2007–28695; FMCSA–2011–0141. Their exemptions are applicable as of September 27, 2019, and will expire on September 27, 2021. V. 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 (ME), as defined by § 390.5, who attests that the driver is otherwise physically qualified under § 391.41; (2) each driver must provide a copy of the ophthalmologist’s or optometrist’s report to the ME 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 or keep a copy of his/her driver’s qualification if he/her is self-employed. The driver must also have a copy of the exemption when 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 E:\FR\FM\06SEN1.SGM 06SEN1 47042 Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 173 / Friday, September 6, 2019 / Notices 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(b). VI. 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 104 exemption applications, FMCSA renews the exemptions of the aforementioned drivers from the vision requirement in § 391.41(b)(10), subject to the requirements cited above. In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315(b), each exemption will be valid for two years unless revoked earlier by FMCSA. Issued on: August 29, 2019. Larry W. Minor, Associate Administrator for Policy. [FR Doc. 2019–19266 Filed 9–5–19; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–EX–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration [Docket No. FMCSA–2019–0034] I. Public Participation Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of applications for exemption; request for comments. AGENCY: FMCSA announces receipt of applications from six individuals for an exemption from the prohibition in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) against persons with a clinical diagnosis of epilepsy or any other condition that is likely to cause a loss of consciousness or any loss of ability to control a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) to drive in interstate commerce. If granted, the exemptions would enable these individuals who have had one or more seizures and are taking anti-seizure medication to operate CMVs in interstate commerce. DATES: Comments must be received on or before October 7, 2019. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments identified by the Federal Docket Management System (FDMS) Docket No. FMCSA–2019–0034 using any of the following methods: jspears on DSK3GMQ082PROD with NOTICES SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:53 Sep 05, 2019 Jkt 247001 • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov/ docket?D=FMCSA-2019-0034. 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., ET, Monday through Friday, except Federal Holidays. • Fax: (202) 493–2251. To avoid duplication, please use only one of these four methods. See the ‘‘Public Participation’’ portion of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section for instructions on submitting comments. 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 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., ET, Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. If you have questions regarding viewing or submitting material to the docket, contact Docket Operations, (202) 366–9826. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: A. Submitting Comments If you submit a comment, please include the docket number for this notice (Docket No. FMCSA—https:// www.regulations.gov/docket?D=FMCSA2019-0034), indicate the specific section of this document to which each comment applies, and provide a reason for each suggestion or recommendation. You may submit your comments and material online or by fax, mail, or hand delivery, but please use only one of these means. FMCSA recommends that you include your name and a mailing address, an email address, or a phone number in the body of your document so that FMCSA can contact you if there are questions regarding your submission. To submit your comment online, go to https://www.regulations.gov/ docket?D=FMCSA-2019-0034. Click on the ‘‘Comment Now!’’ button and type your comment into the text box on the following screen. Choose whether you are submitting your comment as an individual or on behalf of a third party and then submit. If you submit your comments by mail or hand delivery, submit them in an PO 00000 Frm 00111 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 unbound format, no larger than 81⁄2 by 11 inches, suitable for copying and electronic filing. If you submit comments by mail and would like to know that they reached the facility, please enclose a stamped, self-addressed postcard or envelope. FMCSA will consider all comments and material received during the comment period. B. Viewing Documents and Comments To view comments, as well as any documents mentioned in this notice as being available in the docket, go to https://www.regulations.gov/ docket?D=FMCSA-2019-0034 and choose the document to review. If you do not have access to the internet, you may view the docket online by visiting the Docket Management Facility in Room W12–140 on the ground floor of the DOT West Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., ET, Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. C. Privacy Act In accordance with 5 U.S.C. 553(c), DOT solicits comments from the public to better inform its rulemaking process. DOT posts these comments, without edit, including any personal information the commenter provides, to www.regulations.gov, as described in the system of records notice (DOT/ALL– 14 FDMS), which can be reviewed at www.dot.gov/privacy. II. Background Under 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315(b), FMCSA may grant an exemption from the FMCSRs for no longer than a 5-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 5-year period. FMCSA grants medical exemptions from the FMCSRs for a 2year period to align with the maximum duration of a driver’s medical certification. The six individuals listed in this notice have requested an exemption from the epilepsy and seizure disorders prohibition in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(8). 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 statute. The physical qualification standard for drivers regarding epilepsy found in § 391.41(b)(8) states that a person is physically qualified to drive a CMV if E:\FR\FM\06SEN1.SGM 06SEN1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 84, Number 173 (Friday, September 6, 2019)]
[Notices]
[Pages 47038-47042]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2019-19266]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

[Docket No. FMCSA-1998-4334; FMCSA-1999-5578; FMCSA-2001-9561; FMCSA-
2003-14504; FMCSA-2003-15268; FMCSA-2004-19477; FMCSA-2005-20560; 
FMCSA-2005-21254; FMCSA-2006-24783; FMCSA-2006-26066; FMCSA-2007-27333; 
FMCSA-2007-27515; FMCSA-2007-27897; FMCSA-2007-28695; FMCSA-2008-0292; 
FMCSA-2009-0086; FMCSA-2009-0154; FMCSA-2010-0354; FMCSA-2011-0010; 
FMCSA-2011-0057; FMCSA-2011-0092; FMCSA-2011-0102; FMCSA-2011-0124; 
FMCSA-2011-0140; FMCSA-2011-0141; FMCSA-2012-0338; FMCSA-2013-0021; 
FMCSA-2013-0025; FMCSA-2013-0027; FMCSA-2013-0028; FMCSA-2013-0029; 
FMCSA-2013-0030; FMCSA-2014-0011; FMCSA-2014-0305; FMCSA-2015-0048; 
FMCSA-2015-0052; FMCSA-2015-0053; FMCSA-2015-0055; FMCSA-2016-0033; 
FMCSA-2016-0213; FMCSA-2017-0017; FMCSA-2017-0020; FMCSA-2017-0022]


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 104 
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 
requirements in one eye.

DATES: Each group of renewed exemptions were applicable 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 October 
7, 2019.

ADDRESSES: You may submit comments identified by the Federal Docket 
Management System (FDMS) Docket No. FMCSA-1998-4334, Docket No. FMCSA-
1999-5578, Docket No. FMCSA-2001-9561, Docket No. FMCSA-2003-14504, 
Docket No. FMCSA-2003-15268, Docket No. FMCSA-2004-19477, Docket No. 
FMCSA-2005-20560, Docket No. FMCSA-2005-21254, Docket No. FMCSA-2006-
24783, Docket No. FMCSA-2006-26066, Docket No. FMCSA-2007-27333, Docket 
No. FMCSA-2007-27515, Docket No. FMCSA-2007-27897, Docket No. FMCSA-
2007-28695, Docket No. FMCSA-2008-0292, Docket No. FMCSA-2009-0086, 
Docket No. FMCSA-2009-0154, Docket No. FMCSA-2010-0354, Docket No. 
FMCSA-2011-0010, Docket No. FMCSA-2011-0057, Docket No. FMCSA-2011-
0092, Docket No. FMCSA-2011-0102, Docket No. FMCSA-2011-0124, Docket 
No. FMCSA-2011-0140, Docket No. FMCSA-2011-0141, Docket No. FMCSA-2012-
0338, Docket No. FMCSA-2013-0021, Docket No. FMCSA-2013-0025, Docket 
No. FMCSA-2013-0027, Docket No. FMCSA-2013-0028, Docket No. FMCSA-2013-
0029, Docket No. FMCSA-2013-0030, Docket No. FMCSA-2014-0011, Docket 
No. FMCSA-2014-0305, Docket No. FMCSA-2015-0048, Docket No. FMCSA-2015-
0052, Docket No. FMCSA-2015-0053, Docket No. FMCSA-2015-0055, Docket 
No. FMCSA-2016-0033, Docket No. FMCSA-2016-0213, Docket No. FMCSA-2017-
0017, Docket No. FMCSA-2017-0020; or Docket No. FMCSA-2017-0022 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., 
ET, Monday through Friday, except Federal Holidays.
     Fax: (202) 493-2251.
    To avoid duplication, please use only one of these four methods. 
See the ``Public Participation'' portion of the SUPPLEMENTARY 
INFORMATION section for instructions on submitting comments

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Christine A. Hydock, Chief, 
Medical Programs Division, (202) 366-4001, [email protected], 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., 
ET, Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. If you have 
questions regarding viewing or submitting

[[Page 47039]]

material to the docket, contact Docket Services, (202) 366-9826.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

I. Public Participation

A. Submitting Comments

    If you submit a comment, please include the docket number for this 
notice (Docket No. FMCSA-1998-4334; FMCSA-1999-5578; FMCSA-2001-9561; 
FMCSA-2003-14504; FMCSA-2003-15268; FMCSA-2004-19477; FMCSA-2005-20560; 
FMCSA-2005-21254; FMCSA-2006-24783; FMCSA-2006-26066; FMCSA-2007-27333; 
FMCSA-2007-27515; FMCSA-2007-27897; FMCSA-2007-28695; FMCSA-2008-0292; 
FMCSA-2009-0086; FMCSA-2009-0154; FMCSA-2010-0354; FMCSA-2011-0010; 
FMCSA-2011-0057; FMCSA-2011-0092; FMCSA-2011-0102; FMCSA-2011-0124; 
FMCSA-2011-0140; FMCSA-2011-0141; FMCSA-2012-0338; FMCSA-2013-0021; 
FMCSA-2013-0025; FMCSA-2013-0027; FMCSA-2013-0028; FMCSA-2013-0029; 
FMCSA-2013-0030; FMCSA-2014-0011; FMCSA-2014-0305; FMCSA-2015-0048; 
FMCSA-2015-0052; FMCSA-2015-0053; FMCSA-2015-0055; FMCSA-2016-0033; 
FMCSA-2016-0213; FMCSA-2017-0017; FMCSA-2017-0020; or FMCSA-2017-0022), 
indicate the specific section of this document to which each comment 
applies, and provide a reason for each suggestion or recommendation. 
You may submit your comments and material online or by fax, mail, or 
hand delivery, but please use only one of these means. FMCSA recommends 
that you include your name and a mailing address, an email address, or 
a phone number in the body of your document so that FMCSA can contact 
you if there are questions regarding your submission.
    To submit your comment online, go to https://www.regulations.gov, 
put the docket number, FMCSA-1998-4334; FMCSA-1999-5578; FMCSA-2001-
9561; FMCSA-2003-14504; FMCSA-2003-15268; FMCSA-2004-19477; FMCSA-2005-
20560; FMCSA-2005-21254; FMCSA-2006-24783; FMCSA-2006-26066; FMCSA-
2007-27333; FMCSA-2007-27515; FMCSA-2007-27897; FMCSA-2007-28695; 
FMCSA-2008-0292; FMCSA-2009-0086; FMCSA-2009-0154; FMCSA-2010-0354; 
FMCSA-2011-0010; FMCSA-2011-0057; FMCSA-2011-0092; FMCSA-2011-0102; 
FMCSA-2011-0124; FMCSA-2011-0140; FMCSA-2011-0141; FMCSA-2012-0338; 
FMCSA-2013-0021; FMCSA-2013-0025; FMCSA-2013-0027; FMCSA-2013-0028; 
FMCSA-2013-0029; FMCSA-2013-0030; FMCSA-2014-0011; FMCSA-2014-0305; 
FMCSA-2015-0048; FMCSA-2015-0052; FMCSA-2015-0053; FMCSA-2015-0055; 
FMCSA-2016-0033; FMCSA-2016-0213; FMCSA-2017-0017; FMCSA-2017-0020; or 
FMCSA-2017-0022, in the keyword box, and click ``Search.'' When the new 
screen appears, click on the ``Comment Now!'' button and type your 
comment into the text box on the following screen. Choose whether you 
are submitting your comment as an individual or on behalf of a third 
party and then submit.
    If you submit your comments by mail or hand delivery, submit them 
in an unbound format, no larger than 8\1/2\ by 11 inches, suitable for 
copying and electronic filing. If you submit comments by mail and would 
like to know that they reached the facility, please enclose a stamped, 
self-addressed postcard or envelope.
    FMCSA will consider all comments and material received during the 
comment period.

B. Viewing Documents and Comments

    To view comments, as well as any documents mentioned in this notice 
as being available in the docket, go to https://www.regulations.gov. 
Insert the docket number, FMCSA-1998-4334; FMCSA-1999-5578; FMCSA-2001-
9561; FMCSA-2003-14504; FMCSA-2003-15268; FMCSA-2004-19477; FMCSA-2005-
20560; FMCSA-2005-21254; FMCSA-2006-24783; FMCSA-2006-26066; FMCSA-
2007-27333; FMCSA-2007-27515; FMCSA-2007-27897; FMCSA-2007-28695; 
FMCSA-2008-0292; FMCSA-2009-0086; FMCSA-2009-0154; FMCSA-2010-0354; 
FMCSA-2011-0010; FMCSA-2011-0057; FMCSA-2011-0092; FMCSA-2011-0102; 
FMCSA-2011-0124; FMCSA-2011-0140; FMCSA-2011-0141; FMCSA-2012-0338; 
FMCSA-2013-0021; FMCSA-2013-0025; FMCSA-2013-0027; FMCSA-2013-0028; 
FMCSA-2013-0029; FMCSA-2013-0030; FMCSA-2014-0011; FMCSA-2014-0305; 
FMCSA-2015-0048; FMCSA-2015-0052; FMCSA-2015-0053; FMCSA-2015-0055; 
FMCSA-2016-0033; FMCSA-2016-0213; FMCSA-2017-0017; FMCSA-2017-0020; or 
FMCSA-2017-0022, in the keyword box, and click ``Search.'' Next, click 
the ``Open Docket Folder'' button and choose the document to review. If 
you do not have access to the internet, you may view the docket online 
by visiting the Docket Management Facility in Room W12-140 on the 
ground floor of the DOT West Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, 
Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., ET, Monday through 
Friday, except Federal holidays.

C. Privacy Act

    In accordance with 5 U.S.C. 553(c), DOT solicits comments from the 
public to better inform its rulemaking process. DOT posts these 
comments, without edit, including any personal information the 
commenter provides, to www.regulations.gov, as described in the system 
of records notice (DOT/ALL-14 FDMS), which can be reviewed at 
www.dot.gov/privacy.

II. Background

    Under 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315(b), FMCSA may grant an exemption 
from the FMCSRs for no longer than a 5-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 5-year period. FMCSA grants medical exemptions from the 
FMCSRs for a 2-year period to align with the maximum duration of a 
driver's medical certification.
    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 a 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 104 individuals listed in this notice have requested renewal of 
their exemptions from the vision standard in Sec.  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 2-year period.

III. 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

[[Page 47040]]

with the goals and objectives of 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315(b), FMCSA 
will take immediate steps to revoke the exemption of a driver.

IV. Basis for Renewing Exemptions

    In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315(b), each of the 104 
applicants has satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an 
exemption from the vision standard (see 63 FR 66226; 64 FR 16517; 64 FR 
27027; 64 FR 51568; 66 FR 30502; 66 FR 41654; 66 FR 41656; 66 FR 48504; 
68 FR 19598; 68 FR 33570; 68 FR 37197; 68 FR 44837; 68 FR 48989; 68 FR 
54775; 69 FR 64806; 70 FR 2705; 70 FR 17504; 70 FR 25878; 70 FR 30997; 
70 FR 30999; 70 FR 41811; 70 FR 42615; 70 FR 46567; 70 FR 53412; 71 FR 
32183; 71 FR 41310; 71 FR 63379; 72 FR 1051; 72 FR 5489; 72 FR 12666; 
72 FR 21313; 72 FR 25831; 72 FR 27624; 72 FR 28093; 72 FR 32703; 72 FR 
39879; 72 FR 40360; 72 FR 40362; 72 FR 46261; 72 FR 52419; 72 FR 54972; 
72 FR 62896; 73 FR 61922; 73 FR 61925; 73 FR 74565; 73 FR 78423; 74 FR 
15586; 74 FR 19267; 74 FR 19270; 74 FR 20523; 74 FR 23472; 74 FR 26464; 
74 FR 28094; 74 FR 34394; 74 FR 34395; 74 FR 34632; 74 FR 37295; 74 FR 
41971; 74 FR 43221; 74 FR 43223; 74 FR 48343; 75 FR 72863; 75 FR 77949; 
75 FR 79083; 76 FR 2190; 76 FR 9856; 76 FR 17483; 76 FR 18824; 76 FR 
20076; 76 FR 21796; 76 FR 25762; 76 FR 25766; 76 FR 29022; 76 FR 29024; 
76 FR 32017; 76 FR 34135; 76 FR 34136; 76 FR 37169; 76 FR 37885; 76 FR 
40445; 76 FR 44082; 76 FR 44652; 76 FR 49531; 76 FR 50318; 76 FR 53708; 
76 FR 53710; 76 FR 54530; 76 FR 55463; 76 FR 55469; 77 FR 68202; 77 FR 
74273; 77 FR 74731; 77 FR 74734; 78 FR 10251; 78 FR 12811; 78 FR 16762; 
78 FR 20376; 78 FR 20379; 78 FR 22596; 78 FR 24300; 78 FR 24798; 78 FR 
26106; 78 FR 27281; 78 FR 32708; 78 FR 34140; 78 FR 34141; 78 FR 34143; 
78 FR 37270; 78 FR 41188; 78 FR 41975; 78 FR 46407; 78 FR 51268; 78 FR 
52602; 78 FR 56986; 78 FR 56993; 78 FR 78477; 79 FR 4531; 79 FR 24298; 
79 FR 56099; 79 FR 65759; 79 FR 70928; 79 FR 73686; 79 FR 73687; 80 FR 
15863; 80 FR 16502; 80 FR 18696; 80 FR 22773; 80 FR 26139; 80 FR 26320; 
80 FR 29149; 80 FR 29154; 80 FR 31640; 80 FR 33007; 80 FR 33009; 80 FR 
35699; 80 FR 36395; 80 FR 36398; 80 FR 37718; 80 FR 40122; 80 FR 44185; 
80 FR 44188; 80 FR 45573; 80 FR 48402; 80 FR 48404; 80 FR 48409; 80 FR 
48411; 80 FR 49302; 80 FR 50915; 80 FR 50917; 80 FR 53383; 80 FR 62161; 
80 FR 62163; 81 FR 59266; 81 FR 96165; 82 FR 13187; 82 FR 15277; 82 FR 
18949; 82 FR 20962; 82 FR 22379; 82 FR 23712; 82 FR 32919; 82 FR 33542; 
82 FR 34564; 82 FR 37499; 82 FR 37504; 82 FR 47269; 82 FR 47309; 83 FR 
4537). They have submitted evidence showing that the vision in the 
better eye continues to meet the requirement specified at Sec.  
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 2 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 2 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(b), the following 
groups of drivers received renewed exemptions in the month of September 
and are discussed below. As of September 6, 2019, and in accordance 
with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, the following 49 individuals have 
satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an exemption from the 
vision requirement in the FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers (66 FR 
30502; 66 FR 41654; 68 FR 37197; 68 FR 44837; 68 FR 48989; 69 FR 64806; 
70 FR 2705; 70 FR 17504; 70 FR 30997; 70 FR 41811; 70 FR 42615; 71 FR 
32183; 71 FR 41310; 71 FR 63379; 72 FR 1051; 72 FR 5489; 72 FR 12666; 
72 FR 21313; 72 FR 25831; 72 FR 27624; 72 FR 32703; 72 FR 40360; 72 FR 
40362; 73 FR 61922; 73 FR 61925; 73 FR 74565; 73 FR 78423; 74 FR 15586; 
74 FR 19267; 74 FR 19270; 74 FR 23472; 74 FR 26464; 74 FR 28094; 74 FR 
34395; 74 FR 34632; 75 FR 72863; 75 FR 77949; 75 FR 79083; 76 FR 2190; 
76 FR 9856; 76 FR 17483; 76 FR 18824; 76 FR 20076; 76 FR 21796; 76 FR 
25762; 76 FR 25766; 76 FR 29022; 76 FR 29024; 76 FR 32017; 76 FR 34135; 
76 FR 37169; 76 FR 37885; 76 FR 44082; 76 FR 44652; 76 FR 49531; 76 FR 
50318; 77 FR 68202; 77 FR 74273; 77 FR 74731; 77 FR 74734; 78 FR 10251; 
78 FR 12811; 78 FR 16762; 78 FR 20376; 78 FR 20379; 78 FR 22596; 78 FR 
24300; 78 FR 24798; 78 FR 26106; 78 FR 27281; 78 FR 32708; 78 FR 34140; 
78 FR 34141; 78 FR 34143; 78 FR 37270; 78 FR 41188; 78 FR 46407; 78 FR 
51268; 78 FR 52602; 78 FR 56993; 79 FR 4531; 79 FR 24298; 79 FR 56099; 
79 FR 65759; 79 FR 70928; 79 FR 73686; 79 FR 73687; 80 FR 15863; 80 FR 
16502; 80 FR 18696; 80 FR 22773; 80 FR 26139; 80 FR 26320; 80 FR 29149; 
80 FR 29154; 80 FR 31640; 80 FR 33007; 80 FR 33009; 80 FR 35699; 80 FR 
36395; 80 FR 36398; 80 FR 37718; 80 FR 40122; 80 FR 44185; 80 FR 44188; 
80 FR 45573; 80 FR 48404; 80 FR 48409; 80 FR 50917; 80 FR 62161; 80 FR 
62163; 81 FR 59266; 81 FR 96165; 82 FR 13187; 82 FR 15277; 82 FR 18949; 
82 FR 20962; 82 FR 22379; 82 FR 23712; 82 FR 32919; 82 FR 33542; 82 FR 
34564; 82 FR 37499; 82 FR 47269; 83 FR 4537):

Jimmie L. Blue (MT)
Wilfred J. Brinkman (OH)
Dale E. Bunke (ID)
Ralph H. Bushman (IL)
Roger C. Carson (IN)
Daniel G. Cohen (VT)
Adan Cortes-Juarez (WA)
Jeffrey W. Cotner (OR)
Timothy J. Curran (CA)
Joseph Cuthbert (PA)
Walter C. Dean, Sr. (AL)
John C. Dimassa (WA)
Sonya Duff (IN)
Mark J. Dufresne (NH)
Dennis C. Edler (PA)
Jonathan G. Estabrook (MA)
Eric M. Grayson (KY)
William K. Gullett (KY)
Anthony Hall (LA)
Paul M. Hinkson (TN)
Wesley D. Hogue (AR)
Roy W. Houser II (TN)
John T. Johnson (NM)
Jay D. Labrum (UT)
Anthony Luciano (CT)
Duffy P. Metrejean, Jr. (LA)
Brian P. Millard (SC)
Vincent R. Neville (MN)
Willie L. Nez (UT)
Gonzalo Pena (FL)
Robert D. Porter (CA)
Dennis M. Prevas (WI)
Steven A. Proctor (TX)
William A. Ramirez Vasquez (CA)
Steven P. Richter (MN)
Jonathan C. Rollings (IA)
Salvador Sanchez (CA)
Dennis J. Smith (CO)
Hoyt V. Smith (SC)
Rodney W. Sukalski (MN)
Sukru Tamirci (NY)
Lee T. Taylor (FL)
Michael J. Thane (OH)
Jon C. Thompson (TX)
Larry A. Tidwell (MO)
Harlon C. VanBlaricom (MN)
Richard A. Westfall (OH)
Jeff L. Wheeler (IA)
Tommy N. Whitworth (TX)

    The drivers were included in docket numbers FMCSA-2001-9561; FMCSA-
2003-15268; FMCSA-2004-19477; FMCSA-2005-20560; FMCSA-2006-24783; 
FMCSA-2006-26066; FMCSA-2007-27333; FMCSA-2007-27515; FMCSA-2008-0292; 
FMCSA-2009-0086; FMCSA-2010-0354; FMCSA-2011-0010; FMCSA-2011-0057; 
FMCSA-2011-0092; FMCSA-2011-0102; FMCSA-2011-0140; FMCSA-2012-0338; 
FMCSA-2013-0021; FMCSA-2013-0025; FMCSA-2013-0027; FMCSA-2013-0028; 
FMCSA-2013-0029; FMCSA-2014-0011; FMCSA-2014-0305; FMCSA-2015-0048; 
FMCSA-2015-0052; FMCSA-

[[Page 47041]]

2015-0053; FMCSA-2015-0055; FMCSA-2016-0033; FMCSA-2016-0213; FMCSA-
2017-0017; FMCSA-2017-0020. Their exemptions are applicable as of 
September 6, 2019, and will expire on September 6, 2021.
    As of September 7, 2019, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) 
and 31315, the following three individuals have satisfied the renewal 
conditions for obtaining an exemption from the vision requirement in 
the FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers (76 FR 34136; 76 FR 37169; 76 FR 
50318; 76 FR 55463; 78 FR 78477; 80 FR 50915; 83 FR 4537):

Charles E. Carter (MI); James A. Ellis (NY); and Peter M. Shirk (PA)

    The drivers were included in docket numbers FMCSA-2011-0124; FMCSA-
2011-0140. Their exemptions are applicable as of September 7, 2019, and 
will expire on September 7, 2021.
    As of September 12, 2019, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) 
and 31315, the following 13 individuals have satisfied the renewal 
conditions for obtaining an exemption from the vision requirement in 
the FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers (82 FR 37501; 82 FR 47309):

Eddie S. Bennett (MI)
David A. Cooper (WV)
Nicholas M. Deschepper (SD)
John F. Ferguson (PA)
Dominick P. Fittipaldi (PA)
Louis R. LeMonds (WA)
Jonathan Marin (NJ)
Mark E. McNaughton (IA)
Louis Neofotistos (MA)
James R. Rupert (CA)
Christopher J. Schmidt (WI)
Greg C. Stilson (WY)
Eloy Zuniga (TX)

    The drivers were included in docket number FMCSA-2017-0022. Their 
exemptions are applicable as of September 12, 2019, and will expire on 
September 12, 2021.
    As of September 13, 2019, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) 
and 31315, the following eight individuals have satisfied the renewal 
conditions for obtaining an exemption from the vision requirement in 
the FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers (63 FR 66226; 64 FR 16517; 66 FR 
41656; 68 FR 44837; 70 FR 41811; 72 FR 39879; 72 FR 40362; 72 FR 52419; 
74 FR 41971; 76 FR 54530; 78 FR 78477; 80 FR 48402; 83 FR 4537):

John A. Bridges (GA)
Brian W. Curtis (IL)
Tomie L. Estes (MO)
Ray C. Johnson (AR)
James J. Mitchell (NC)
Joshua R. Perkins (ID)
Craig R. Saari (MN)
Jerry L. Schroder (IL)

    The drivers were included in docket numbers FMCSA-1998-4334; FMCSA-
2007-27897. Their exemptions are applicable as of September 13, 2019, 
and will expire on September 13, 2021.
    As of September 16, 2019, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) 
and 31315, the following seven individuals have satisfied the renewal 
conditions for obtaining an exemption from the vision requirement in 
the FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers (78 FR 27281; 78 FR 34143; 78 FR 
41188; 78 FR 41975; 78 FR 52602; 78 FR 56986; 80 FR 48411; 83 FR 4537):

Carl Block (NY)
Christopher Brim (TN)
Phyllis Dodson (IN)
Juan M. Guerrero (TX)
Berl C. Jennings (VA)
Vincent Marsee, Sr. (NC)
David Snellings (MD)

    The drivers were included in docket numbers FMCSA-2013-0030; FMCSA-
2013-0028; FMCSA-2013-0029. Their exemptions are applicable as of 
September 16, 2019, and will expire on September 16, 2021.
    As of September 22, 2019, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) 
and 31315, the following 13 individuals have satisfied the renewal 
conditions for obtaining an exemption from the vision requirement in 
the FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers (68 FR 19598; 68 FR 33570; 70 FR 
17504; 70 FR 25878; 70 FR 30997; 72 FR 28093; 72 FR 40362; 74 FR 20523; 
74 FR 34394; 74 FR 37295; 74 FR 48343; 76 FR 34136; 76 FR 53708; 76 FR 
54530; 76 FR 55463; 78 FR 78477; 80 FR 49302; 83 FR 4537):

Michael K. Adams (OH)
Eleazar R. Balli (TX)
Darrell W. Bayless (TX)
Clifford D. Carpenter (MO)
Cecil A. Evey (ID)
Kamal A. Gaddah (OH)
Eric M. Kousgaard (NE)
Samuel A. Miller (IN)
Larry T. Rogers (IL)
Marcial Soto-Rivas (OR)
Boyd D. Stamey (NC)
David C. Sybesma (ID)
Matthew K. Tucker (MN)

    The drivers were included in docket numbers FMCSA-2003-14504; 
FMCSA-2005-20560; FMCSA-2009-0154; FMCSA-2011-0124. Their exemptions 
are applicable as of September 22, 2019, and will expire on September 
22, 2021.
    As of September 23, 2019, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) 
and 31315, the following nine individuals have satisfied the renewal 
conditions for obtaining an exemption from the vision requirement in 
the FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers (64 FR 27027; 64 FR 51568; 66 FR 
48504; 68 FR 19598; 68 FR 33570; 68 FR 37197; 68 FR 48989; 68 FR 54775; 
70 FR 30999; 70 FR 42615; 70 FR 46567; 70 FR 53412; 72 FR 39879; 72 FR 
52419; 72 FR 62896; 74 FR 43221; 76 FR 53708; 78 FR 78477; 80 FR 53383; 
83 FR 4537):

Linda L. Billings (NV)
Weldon R. Evans (OH)
Orasio Garcia (TX)
Leslie W. Good (OR)
James P. Guth (PA)
Gregory K. Lilly (WV)
Kenneth A. Reddick (PA)
Leonard Rice, Jr. (GA)
James T. Sullivan (KY)

    The drivers were included in docket numbers FMCSA-1999-5578; FMCSA-
2003-14504; FMCSA-2003-15268; FMCSA-2005-21254; FMCSA-2007-27897. Their 
exemptions are applicable as of September 23, 2019, and will expire on 
September 23, 2021.
    As of September 27, 2019, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) 
and 31315, the following two individuals have satisfied the renewal 
conditions for obtaining an exemption from the vision requirement in 
the FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers (72 FR 46261; 72 FR 54972; 74 FR 
43223; 76 FR 40445; 76 FR 53710; 76 FR 55469; 78 FR 78477; 83 FR 4537):

Joe M. Flores (NM); and Kenneth D. Perkins (NC)

    The drivers were included in docket numbers FMCSA-2007-28695; 
FMCSA-2011-0141. Their exemptions are applicable as of September 27, 
2019, and will expire on September 27, 2021.

V. 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 (ME), as defined by Sec.  
390.5, who attests that the driver is otherwise physically qualified 
under Sec.  391.41; (2) each driver must provide a copy of the 
ophthalmologist's or optometrist's report to the ME 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 or keep a copy of his/her driver's 
qualification if he/her is self-employed. The driver must also have a 
copy of the exemption when 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

[[Page 47042]]

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(b).

VI. 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 104 exemption applications, FMCSA 
renews the exemptions of the aforementioned drivers from the vision 
requirement in Sec.  391.41(b)(10), subject to the requirements cited 
above. In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315(b), each 
exemption will be valid for two years unless revoked earlier by FMCSA.

    Issued on: August 29, 2019.
Larry W. Minor,
Associate Administrator for Policy.
[FR Doc. 2019-19266 Filed 9-5-19; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-EX-P


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