Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision, 62793-62795 [2020-21898]
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Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 193 / Monday, October 5, 2020 / Notices
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Administration
[Docket No. FMCSA–1998–3637; FMCSA–
1999–6480; FMCSA–2000–7165; FMCSA–
2000–8203; FMCSA–2002–12294; FMCSA–
2003–16564; FMCSA–2005–22194; FMCSA–
2006–23773; FMCSA–2008–0266; FMCSA–
2009–0206; FMCSA–2009–0291; FMCSA–
2010–0201; FMCSA–2011–0379; FMCSA–
2014–0002; FMCSA–2014–0004; FMCSA–
2014–0006; FMCSA–2014–0007; FMCSA–
2014–0010; FMCSA–2014–0297; FMCSA–
2016–0029; FMCSA–2016–0031; FMCSA–
2016–0033; FMCSA–2016–0206; FMCSA–
2016–0207; FMCSA–2016–0208; FMCSA–
2016–0209; FMCSA–2016–0210; FMCSA–
2017–0017; FMCSA–2018–0010; FMCSA–
2018–0011; FMCSA–2018–0017; FMCSA–
2018–0018]
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 42
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 are 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 November 4, 2020.
ADDRESSES: You may submit comments
identified by the Federal Docket
Management System (FDMS) Docket No.
FMCSA–1998–3637, Docket No.
FMCSA–1999–6480, Docket No.
FMCSA–2000–7165, Docket No.
FMCSA–2000–8203, Docket No.
FMCSA–2002–12294, Docket No.
FMCSA–2003–16564, Docket No.
FMCSA–2005–22194, Docket No.
FMCSA–2006–23773, Docket No.
FMCSA–2008–0266, Docket No.
FMCSA–2009–0206, Docket No.
FMCSA–2009–0291, Docket No.
FMCSA–2010–0201, Docket No.
FMCSA–2011–0379, Docket No.
FMCSA–2014–0002, Docket No.
FMCSA–2014–0004, Docket No.
FMCSA–2014–0006, Docket No.
FMCSA–2014–0007, Docket No.
FMCSA–2014–0010, Docket No.
FMCSA–2014–0297, Docket No.
FMCSA–2016–0029, Docket No.
FMCSA–2016–0031, Docket No.
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SUMMARY:
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FMCSA–2016–0033, Docket No.
FMCSA–2016–0206, Docket No.
FMCSA–2016–0207, Docket No.
FMCSA–2016–0208, Docket No.
FMCSA–2016–0209, Docket No.
FMCSA–2016–0210, Docket No.
FMCSA–2017–0017, Docket No.
FMCSA–2018–0010, Docket No.
FMCSA–2018–0011, Docket No.
FMCSA–2018–0017, or Docket No.
FMCSA–2018–0018 using any of the
following methods:
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
online instructions for submitting
comments.
• Mail: Docket Operations; 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
material to the docket, contact Docket
Operations, (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–1998–3637;
FMCSA–1999–6480; FMCSA–2000–
7165; FMCSA–2000–8203; FMCSA–
2002–12294; FMCSA–2003–16564;
FMCSA–2005–22194; FMCSA–2006–
23773; FMCSA–2008–0266; FMCSA–
2009–0206; FMCSA–2009–0291;
FMCSA–2010–0201; FMCSA–2011–
0379; FMCSA–2014–0002; FMCSA–
2014–0004; FMCSA–2014–0006;
FMCSA–2014–0007; FMCSA–2014–
0010; FMCSA–2014–0297; FMCSA–
2016–0029; FMCSA–2016–0031;
FMCSA–2016–0033; FMCSA–2016–
0206; FMCSA–2016–0207; FMCSA–
2016–0208; FMCSA–2016–0209;
PO 00000
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62793
FMCSA–2016–0210; FMCSA–2017–
0017; FMCSA–2018–0010; FMCSA–
2018–0011; FMCSA–2018–0017;
FMCSA–2018–0018), 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–1998–3637;
FMCSA–1999–6480; FMCSA–2000–
7165; FMCSA–2000–8203; FMCSA–
2002–12294; FMCSA–2003–16564;
FMCSA–2005–22194; FMCSA–2006–
23773; FMCSA–2008–0266; FMCSA–
2009–0206; FMCSA–2009–0291;
FMCSA–2010–0201; FMCSA–2011–
0379; FMCSA–2014–0002; FMCSA–
2014–0004; FMCSA–2014–0006;
FMCSA–2014–0007; FMCSA–2014–
0010; FMCSA–2014–0297; FMCSA–
2016–0029; FMCSA–2016–0031;
FMCSA–2016–0033; FMCSA–2016–
0206; FMCSA–2016–0207; FMCSA–
2016–0208; FMCSA–2016–0209;
FMCSA–2016–0210; FMCSA–2017–
0017; FMCSA–2018–0010; FMCSA–
2018–0011; FMCSA–2018–0017;
FMCSA–2018–0018, 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–1998–3637;
FMCSA–1999–6480; FMCSA–2000–
7165; FMCSA–2000–8203; FMCSA–
2002–12294; FMCSA–2003–16564;
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Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 193 / Monday, October 5, 2020 / Notices
FMCSA–2005–22194; FMCSA–2006–
23773; FMCSA–2008–0266; FMCSA–
2009–0206; FMCSA–2009–0291;
FMCSA–2010–0201; FMCSA–2011–
0379; FMCSA–2014–0002; FMCSA–
2014–0004; FMCSA–2014–0006;
FMCSA–2014–0007; FMCSA–2014–
0010; FMCSA–2014–0297; FMCSA–
2016–0029; FMCSA–2016–0031;
FMCSA–2016–0033; FMCSA–2016–
0206; FMCSA–2016–0207; FMCSA–
2016–0208; FMCSA–2016–0209;
FMCSA–2016–0210; FMCSA–2017–
0017; FMCSA–2018–0010; FMCSA–
2018–0011; FMCSA–2018–0017;
FMCSA–2018–0018, 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 Operations 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.
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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.transportation.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
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in each eye, and the ability to recognize
the colors of traffic signals and devices
showing red, green, and amber.
The 42 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
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 42 applicants
has satisfied the renewal conditions for
obtaining an exemption from the vision
standard (see 63 FR 196; 63 FR 30285;
64 FR 68195; 65 FR 20251; 65 FR 33406;
65 FR 57234; 65 FR 66293; 67 FR 38311;
67 FR 46016; 67 FR 57266; 67 FR 57267;
67 FR 67234; 68 FR 74699; 69 FR 10503;
69 FR 26921; 69 FR 51346; 69 FR 52741;
69 FR 62741; 70 FR 57353; 70 FR 72689;
71 FR 6828; 71 FR 6829; 71 FR 19604;
71 FR 27033; 71 FR 50970; 71 FR 53489;
71 FR 62147; 73 FR 27018; 73 FR 36955;
73 FR 42403; 73 FR 48270; 73 FR 51336;
73 FR 51689; 73 FR 63047; 73 FR 74565;
74 FR 43217; 74 FR 57551; 74 FR 65842;
75 FR 9482; 75 FR 36779; 75 FR 38602;
75 FR 50799; 75 FR 52062; 75 FR 54958;
75 FR 64396; 75 FR 66423; 75 FR 70078;
76 FR 66123; 77 FR 10604; 77 FR 15184;
77 FR 27850; 77 FR 38384; 77 FR 40946;
77 FR 48590; 77 FR 52389; 77 FR 64582;
77 FR 68199; 77 FR 68200; 78 FR 77782;
79 FR 10608; 79 FR 10619; 79 FR 18392;
79 FR 22003; 79 FR 29498; 79 FR 35212;
79 FR 35218; 79 FR 38659; 79 FR 38661;
79 FR 45868; 79 FR 46300; 79 FR 47175;
79 FR 51643; 79 FR 53514; 79 FR 56104;
79 FR 59357; 79 FR 63211; 79 FR 64001;
79 FR 68199; 80 FR 2471; 81 FR 20435;
81 FR 28138; 81 FR 42054; 81 FR 52514;
81 FR 59266; 81 FR 60115; 81 FR 66722;
81 FR 68098; 81 FR 70248; 81 FR 70251;
81 FR 70253; 81 FR 71173; 81 FR 72642;
81 FR 72664; 81 FR 74494; 81 FR 80161;
81 FR 81230; 81 FR 90046; 81 FR 90050;
81 FR 94013; 81 FR 96178; 81 FR 96191;
81 FR 96196; 82 FR 20962; 82 FR 37499;
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83 FR 18633; 83 FR 24585; 83 FR 28325;
83 FR 28332; 83 FR 28342; 83 FR 34661;
83 FR 34677; 83 FR 40638; 83 FR 45750;
83 FR 53724; 83 FR 53727; 83 FR 56137;
83 FR 56902; 84 FR 2328). They have
submitted evidence showing that the
vision in the better eye continues to
meet the 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 November and are
discussed below. As of November 9,
2020, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C.
31136(e) and 31315, the following 30
individuals have satisfied the renewal
conditions for obtaining an exemption
from the vision requirement in the
FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers (63
FR 196; 63 FR 30285; 64 FR 68195; 65
FR 20251; 65 FR 33406; 65 FR 57234;
65 FR 66293; 67 FR 38311; 67 FR 46016;
67 FR 57266; 67 FR 57267; 67 FR 67234;
68 FR 74699; 69 FR 10503; 69 FR 26921;
69 FR 51346; 69 FR 52741; 69 FR 62741;
70 FR 57353; 70 FR 72689; 71 FR 6828;
71 FR 6829; 71 FR 19604; 71 FR 27033;
71 FR 50970; 71 FR 53489; 71 FR 62147;
73 FR 27018; 73 FR 36955; 73 FR 42403;
73 FR 48270; 73 FR 51336; 73 FR 51689;
73 FR 63047; 73 FR 74565; 74 FR 43217;
74 FR 57551; 74 FR 65842; 75 FR 9482;
75 FR 36779; 75 FR 38602; 75 FR 50799;
75 FR 52062; 75 FR 54958; 75 FR 64396;
75 FR 66423; 75 FR 70078; 76 FR 66123;
77 FR 10604; 77 FR 15184; 77 FR 27850;
77 FR 38384; 77 FR 40946; 77 FR 48590;
77 FR 52389; 77 FR 64582; 77 FR 68199;
77 FR 68200; 78 FR 77782; 79 FR 10608;
79 FR 10619; 79 FR 18392; 79 FR
2200379 FR 29498; 79 FR 35212; 79 FR
35218; 79 FR 38659; 79 FR 38661; 79 FR
45868; 79 FR 46300; 79 FR 47175; 79 FR
51643; 79 FR 53514; 79 FR 56104; 79 FR
59357; 79 FR 64001; 79 FR 68199; 81 FR
20435; 81 FR 28138; 81 FR 42054; 81 FR
52514; 81 FR 59266; 81 FR 60115; 81 FR
66722; 81 FR 68098; 81 FR 71173; 81 FR
72642; 81 FR 74494; 81 FR 80161; 81 FR
81230; 81 FR 90050; 81 FR 96196; 82 FR
20962; 82 FR 37499; 83 FR 18633; 83 FR
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Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 193 / Monday, October 5, 2020 / Notices
24585; 83 FR 28325; 83 FR 28332; 83 FR
28342; 83 FR 34661; 83 FR 34677; 83 FR
40638; 83 FR 45750; 83 FR 53724; 83 FR
56137; 83 FR 56902):
Rodney R. Anderson (PA)
Gary A. Brown (PA)
James W. Carter, Jr. (KS)
Jose D. Chavez (MD)
David M. Clark (MD)
David A. Coburn, Sr. (VT)
Thomas L. Corey (IN)
Herman A. Davis (AL)
Joseph A. Dunlap (OH)
Tyron O. Friese (MN)
Randy M. Garcia (NM)
Andeberhan O. Gidey (WA)
Rodney P. Hains (ND)
Ronnie L. Henry (KS)
William G. Hix (AR)
Daniel Hollins (KY)
Darryl D. Kelley (TX)
Timothy L. Klose (PA)
Aaron C. Lougher (OR)
Phillip E. Mason (MO)
Odilio Monterroso De Leon (TX)
Dennis E. Palmer, Jr. (CT)
Larry A. Priewe (ND)
Christopher W. Robinson (NY)
Scott D. Russell (WI)
Benjamin R. Sauder (PA)
Jimmy E. Settle (MO)
Mark A. Smith (IA)
Leon W. Tanksley (GA)
Brian C. Wittenburg (NC)
The drivers were included in docket
numbers FMCSA–1998–3637; FMCSA–
1999–6480; FMCSA–2000–7165;
FMCSA–2000–8203; FMCSA–2002–
12294; FMCSA–2003–16564; FMCSA–
2005–22194; FMCSA–2006–23773;
FMCSA–2008–0266; FMCSA–2009–
0206; FMCSA–2009–0291; FMCSA–
2010–0201; FMCSA–2011–0379;
FMCSA–2014–0002; FMCSA–2014–
0004; FMCSA–2014–0006; FMCSA–
2014–0007; FMCSA–2014–0010;
FMCSA–2016–0029; FMCSA–2016–
0031; FMCSA–2016–0033; FMCSA–
2016–0206; FMCSA–2017–0017;
FMCSA–2018–0010; FMCSA–2018–
0011; FMCSA–2018–0017. Their
exemptions are applicable as of
November 9, 2020, and will expire on
November 9, 2022.
As of November 11, 2020, 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 (81 FR 70248; 81
FR 70251; 81 FR 70253; 81 FR 90046;
81 FR 96178; 81 FR 96191; 83 FR
53724):
Elijah A. Allen (AR)
Daniel L. Bawden (IL)
Timothy J. Dougherty (MN)
Josh Gallant (SC)
Dillon L. Hendren (SC)
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23:42 Oct 02, 2020
Jkt 253001
George P. Mendiola (CA)
Alfred L. Robinson (AR)
Jerry L. Smith (VA)
The drivers were included in docket
numbers FMCSA–2016–0207; FMCSA–
2016–0208; FMCSA–2016–0209. Their
exemptions are applicable as of
November 11, 2020, and will expire on
November 11, 2022.
As of November 22, 2020, 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 (79 FR 63211; 80
FR 2471; 81 FR 72664; 81 FR 94013; 83
FR 53724):
Peter J. Faber (NE); James F.
McLaughlin (MN); and Michael J.
Monroe (IA)
The drivers were included in docket
numbers FMCSA–2014–0297; FMCSA–
2016–0210. Their exemptions are
applicable as of November 22, 2020, and
will expire on November 22, 2022.
As of November 24, 2020, and in
accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and
31315, the following individual has
satisfied the renewal conditions for
obtaining an exemption from the vision
requirement in the FMCSRs for
interstate CMV drivers (83 FR 53727; 84
FR 2328):
Marcel Spinu (WA)
The driver was included in docket
number FMCSA–2018–0018. The
exemption is applicable as of November
24, 2020, and will expire on November
24, 2022.
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
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62795
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).
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 42
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 2 years
unless revoked earlier by FMCSA.
Larry W. Minor,
Associate Administrator for Policy.
[FR Doc. 2020–21898 Filed 10–2–20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–EX–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Administration
[Docket No. FMCSA–2014–0212; FMCSA–
2014–0215; FMCSA–2018–0053; FMCSA–
2018–0054]
Qualification of Drivers; Exemption
Applications; Epilepsy and Seizure
Disorders
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 six
individuals from the requirement in the
Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Regulations (FMCSRs) that interstate
commercial motor vehicle (CMV)
drivers have ‘‘no established medical
history or clinical diagnosis of epilepsy
or any other condition which is likely
to cause loss of consciousness or any
loss of ability to control a CMV.’’ The
exemptions enable these individuals
who have had one or more seizures and
are taking anti-seizure medication to
continue to operate CMVs in interstate
commerce.
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
SUMMARY:
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]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 193 (Monday, October 5, 2020)]
[Notices]
[Pages 62793-62795]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-21898]
[[Page 62793]]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
[Docket No. FMCSA-1998-3637; FMCSA-1999-6480; FMCSA-2000-7165; FMCSA-
2000-8203; FMCSA-2002-12294; FMCSA-2003-16564; FMCSA-2005-22194; FMCSA-
2006-23773; FMCSA-2008-0266; FMCSA-2009-0206; FMCSA-2009-0291; FMCSA-
2010-0201; FMCSA-2011-0379; FMCSA-2014-0002; FMCSA-2014-0004; FMCSA-
2014-0006; FMCSA-2014-0007; FMCSA-2014-0010; FMCSA-2014-0297; FMCSA-
2016-0029; FMCSA-2016-0031; FMCSA-2016-0033; FMCSA-2016-0206; FMCSA-
2016-0207; FMCSA-2016-0208; FMCSA-2016-0209; FMCSA-2016-0210; FMCSA-
2017-0017; FMCSA-2018-0010; FMCSA-2018-0011; FMCSA-2018-0017; FMCSA-
2018-0018]
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 42
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 are 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 November
4, 2020.
ADDRESSES: You may submit comments identified by the Federal Docket
Management System (FDMS) Docket No. FMCSA-1998-3637, Docket No. FMCSA-
1999-6480, Docket No. FMCSA-2000-7165, Docket No. FMCSA-2000-8203,
Docket No. FMCSA-2002-12294, Docket No. FMCSA-2003-16564, Docket No.
FMCSA-2005-22194, Docket No. FMCSA-2006-23773, Docket No. FMCSA-2008-
0266, Docket No. FMCSA-2009-0206, Docket No. FMCSA-2009-0291, Docket
No. FMCSA-2010-0201, Docket No. FMCSA-2011-0379, Docket No. FMCSA-2014-
0002, Docket No. FMCSA-2014-0004, Docket No. FMCSA-2014-0006, Docket
No. FMCSA-2014-0007, Docket No. FMCSA-2014-0010, Docket No. FMCSA-2014-
0297, Docket No. FMCSA-2016-0029, Docket No. FMCSA-2016-0031, Docket
No. FMCSA-2016-0033, Docket No. FMCSA-2016-0206, Docket No. FMCSA-2016-
0207, Docket No. FMCSA-2016-0208, Docket No. FMCSA-2016-0209, Docket
No. FMCSA-2016-0210, Docket No. FMCSA-2017-0017, Docket No. FMCSA-2018-
0010, Docket No. FMCSA-2018-0011, Docket No. FMCSA-2018-0017, or Docket
No. FMCSA-2018-0018 using any of the following methods:
Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for submitting
comments.
Mail: Docket Operations; 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 material to the docket,
contact Docket Operations, (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-1998-3637; FMCSA-1999-6480; FMCSA-2000-7165;
FMCSA-2000-8203; FMCSA-2002-12294; FMCSA-2003-16564; FMCSA-2005-22194;
FMCSA-2006-23773; FMCSA-2008-0266; FMCSA-2009-0206; FMCSA-2009-0291;
FMCSA-2010-0201; FMCSA-2011-0379; FMCSA-2014-0002; FMCSA-2014-0004;
FMCSA-2014-0006; FMCSA-2014-0007; FMCSA-2014-0010; FMCSA-2014-0297;
FMCSA-2016-0029; FMCSA-2016-0031; FMCSA-2016-0033; FMCSA-2016-0206;
FMCSA-2016-0207; FMCSA-2016-0208; FMCSA-2016-0209; FMCSA-2016-0210;
FMCSA-2017-0017; FMCSA-2018-0010; FMCSA-2018-0011; FMCSA-2018-0017;
FMCSA-2018-0018), 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-1998-3637; FMCSA-1999-6480; FMCSA-2000-
7165; FMCSA-2000-8203; FMCSA-2002-12294; FMCSA-2003-16564; FMCSA-2005-
22194; FMCSA-2006-23773; FMCSA-2008-0266; FMCSA-2009-0206; FMCSA-2009-
0291; FMCSA-2010-0201; FMCSA-2011-0379; FMCSA-2014-0002; FMCSA-2014-
0004; FMCSA-2014-0006; FMCSA-2014-0007; FMCSA-2014-0010; FMCSA-2014-
0297; FMCSA-2016-0029; FMCSA-2016-0031; FMCSA-2016-0033; FMCSA-2016-
0206; FMCSA-2016-0207; FMCSA-2016-0208; FMCSA-2016-0209; FMCSA-2016-
0210; FMCSA-2017-0017; FMCSA-2018-0010; FMCSA-2018-0011; FMCSA-2018-
0017; FMCSA-2018-0018, 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-1998-3637; FMCSA-1999-6480; FMCSA-2000-
7165; FMCSA-2000-8203; FMCSA-2002-12294; FMCSA-2003-16564;
[[Page 62794]]
FMCSA-2005-22194; FMCSA-2006-23773; FMCSA-2008-0266; FMCSA-2009-0206;
FMCSA-2009-0291; FMCSA-2010-0201; FMCSA-2011-0379; FMCSA-2014-0002;
FMCSA-2014-0004; FMCSA-2014-0006; FMCSA-2014-0007; FMCSA-2014-0010;
FMCSA-2014-0297; FMCSA-2016-0029; FMCSA-2016-0031; FMCSA-2016-0033;
FMCSA-2016-0206; FMCSA-2016-0207; FMCSA-2016-0208; FMCSA-2016-0209;
FMCSA-2016-0210; FMCSA-2017-0017; FMCSA-2018-0010; FMCSA-2018-0011;
FMCSA-2018-0017; FMCSA-2018-0018, 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 Operations 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.transportation.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 42 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 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 42
applicants has satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an
exemption from the vision standard (see 63 FR 196; 63 FR 30285; 64 FR
68195; 65 FR 20251; 65 FR 33406; 65 FR 57234; 65 FR 66293; 67 FR 38311;
67 FR 46016; 67 FR 57266; 67 FR 57267; 67 FR 67234; 68 FR 74699; 69 FR
10503; 69 FR 26921; 69 FR 51346; 69 FR 52741; 69 FR 62741; 70 FR 57353;
70 FR 72689; 71 FR 6828; 71 FR 6829; 71 FR 19604; 71 FR 27033; 71 FR
50970; 71 FR 53489; 71 FR 62147; 73 FR 27018; 73 FR 36955; 73 FR 42403;
73 FR 48270; 73 FR 51336; 73 FR 51689; 73 FR 63047; 73 FR 74565; 74 FR
43217; 74 FR 57551; 74 FR 65842; 75 FR 9482; 75 FR 36779; 75 FR 38602;
75 FR 50799; 75 FR 52062; 75 FR 54958; 75 FR 64396; 75 FR 66423; 75 FR
70078; 76 FR 66123; 77 FR 10604; 77 FR 15184; 77 FR 27850; 77 FR 38384;
77 FR 40946; 77 FR 48590; 77 FR 52389; 77 FR 64582; 77 FR 68199; 77 FR
68200; 78 FR 77782; 79 FR 10608; 79 FR 10619; 79 FR 18392; 79 FR 22003;
79 FR 29498; 79 FR 35212; 79 FR 35218; 79 FR 38659; 79 FR 38661; 79 FR
45868; 79 FR 46300; 79 FR 47175; 79 FR 51643; 79 FR 53514; 79 FR 56104;
79 FR 59357; 79 FR 63211; 79 FR 64001; 79 FR 68199; 80 FR 2471; 81 FR
20435; 81 FR 28138; 81 FR 42054; 81 FR 52514; 81 FR 59266; 81 FR 60115;
81 FR 66722; 81 FR 68098; 81 FR 70248; 81 FR 70251; 81 FR 70253; 81 FR
71173; 81 FR 72642; 81 FR 72664; 81 FR 74494; 81 FR 80161; 81 FR 81230;
81 FR 90046; 81 FR 90050; 81 FR 94013; 81 FR 96178; 81 FR 96191; 81 FR
96196; 82 FR 20962; 82 FR 37499; 83 FR 18633; 83 FR 24585; 83 FR 28325;
83 FR 28332; 83 FR 28342; 83 FR 34661; 83 FR 34677; 83 FR 40638; 83 FR
45750; 83 FR 53724; 83 FR 53727; 83 FR 56137; 83 FR 56902; 84 FR 2328).
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 November
and are discussed below. As of November 9, 2020, and in accordance with
49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, the following 30 individuals have
satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an exemption from the
vision requirement in the FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers (63 FR 196;
63 FR 30285; 64 FR 68195; 65 FR 20251; 65 FR 33406; 65 FR 57234; 65 FR
66293; 67 FR 38311; 67 FR 46016; 67 FR 57266; 67 FR 57267; 67 FR 67234;
68 FR 74699; 69 FR 10503; 69 FR 26921; 69 FR 51346; 69 FR 52741; 69 FR
62741; 70 FR 57353; 70 FR 72689; 71 FR 6828; 71 FR 6829; 71 FR 19604;
71 FR 27033; 71 FR 50970; 71 FR 53489; 71 FR 62147; 73 FR 27018; 73 FR
36955; 73 FR 42403; 73 FR 48270; 73 FR 51336; 73 FR 51689; 73 FR 63047;
73 FR 74565; 74 FR 43217; 74 FR 57551; 74 FR 65842; 75 FR 9482; 75 FR
36779; 75 FR 38602; 75 FR 50799; 75 FR 52062; 75 FR 54958; 75 FR 64396;
75 FR 66423; 75 FR 70078; 76 FR 66123; 77 FR 10604; 77 FR 15184; 77 FR
27850; 77 FR 38384; 77 FR 40946; 77 FR 48590; 77 FR 52389; 77 FR 64582;
77 FR 68199; 77 FR 68200; 78 FR 77782; 79 FR 10608; 79 FR 10619; 79 FR
18392; 79 FR 2200379 FR 29498; 79 FR 35212; 79 FR 35218; 79 FR 38659;
79 FR 38661; 79 FR 45868; 79 FR 46300; 79 FR 47175; 79 FR 51643; 79 FR
53514; 79 FR 56104; 79 FR 59357; 79 FR 64001; 79 FR 68199; 81 FR 20435;
81 FR 28138; 81 FR 42054; 81 FR 52514; 81 FR 59266; 81 FR 60115; 81 FR
66722; 81 FR 68098; 81 FR 71173; 81 FR 72642; 81 FR 74494; 81 FR 80161;
81 FR 81230; 81 FR 90050; 81 FR 96196; 82 FR 20962; 82 FR 37499; 83 FR
18633; 83 FR
[[Page 62795]]
24585; 83 FR 28325; 83 FR 28332; 83 FR 28342; 83 FR 34661; 83 FR 34677;
83 FR 40638; 83 FR 45750; 83 FR 53724; 83 FR 56137; 83 FR 56902):
Rodney R. Anderson (PA)
Gary A. Brown (PA)
James W. Carter, Jr. (KS)
Jose D. Chavez (MD)
David M. Clark (MD)
David A. Coburn, Sr. (VT)
Thomas L. Corey (IN)
Herman A. Davis (AL)
Joseph A. Dunlap (OH)
Tyron O. Friese (MN)
Randy M. Garcia (NM)
Andeberhan O. Gidey (WA)
Rodney P. Hains (ND)
Ronnie L. Henry (KS)
William G. Hix (AR)
Daniel Hollins (KY)
Darryl D. Kelley (TX)
Timothy L. Klose (PA)
Aaron C. Lougher (OR)
Phillip E. Mason (MO)
Odilio Monterroso De Leon (TX)
Dennis E. Palmer, Jr. (CT)
Larry A. Priewe (ND)
Christopher W. Robinson (NY)
Scott D. Russell (WI)
Benjamin R. Sauder (PA)
Jimmy E. Settle (MO)
Mark A. Smith (IA)
Leon W. Tanksley (GA)
Brian C. Wittenburg (NC)
The drivers were included in docket numbers FMCSA-1998-3637; FMCSA-
1999-6480; FMCSA-2000-7165; FMCSA-2000-8203; FMCSA-2002-12294; FMCSA-
2003-16564; FMCSA-2005-22194; FMCSA-2006-23773; FMCSA-2008-0266; FMCSA-
2009-0206; FMCSA-2009-0291; FMCSA-2010-0201; FMCSA-2011-0379; FMCSA-
2014-0002; FMCSA-2014-0004; FMCSA-2014-0006; FMCSA-2014-0007; FMCSA-
2014-0010; FMCSA-2016-0029; FMCSA-2016-0031; FMCSA-2016-0033; FMCSA-
2016-0206; FMCSA-2017-0017; FMCSA-2018-0010; FMCSA-2018-0011; FMCSA-
2018-0017. Their exemptions are applicable as of November 9, 2020, and
will expire on November 9, 2022.
As of November 11, 2020, 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 (81 FR 70248; 81 FR 70251; 81 FR
70253; 81 FR 90046; 81 FR 96178; 81 FR 96191; 83 FR 53724):
Elijah A. Allen (AR)
Daniel L. Bawden (IL)
Timothy J. Dougherty (MN)
Josh Gallant (SC)
Dillon L. Hendren (SC)
George P. Mendiola (CA)
Alfred L. Robinson (AR)
Jerry L. Smith (VA)
The drivers were included in docket numbers FMCSA-2016-0207; FMCSA-
2016-0208; FMCSA-2016-0209. Their exemptions are applicable as of
November 11, 2020, and will expire on November 11, 2022.
As of November 22, 2020, 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 (79 FR 63211; 80 FR 2471; 81 FR
72664; 81 FR 94013; 83 FR 53724):
Peter J. Faber (NE); James F. McLaughlin (MN); and Michael J.
Monroe (IA)
The drivers were included in docket numbers FMCSA-2014-0297; FMCSA-
2016-0210. Their exemptions are applicable as of November 22, 2020, and
will expire on November 22, 2022.
As of November 24, 2020, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e)
and 31315, the following individual has satisfied the renewal
conditions for obtaining an exemption from the vision requirement in
the FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers (83 FR 53727; 84 FR 2328):
Marcel Spinu (WA)
The driver was included in docket number FMCSA-2018-0018. The
exemption is applicable as of November 24, 2020, and will expire on
November 24, 2022.
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 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 42 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 2 years unless revoked earlier by FMCSA.
Larry W. Minor,
Associate Administrator for Policy.
[FR Doc. 2020-21898 Filed 10-2-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-EX-P
