Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders, 52735-52737 [2021-20454]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 181 / Wednesday, September 22, 2021 / Notices received will be posted without change. Persons submitting comments are cautioned that we do not redact or edit personal identifying information from comment submissions. You should submit only information that you wish to make available publicly. All submissions should refer to File Number SR–EMERALD–2021–28 and should be submitted on or before October 13, 2021. For the Commission, by the Division of Trading and Markets, pursuant to delegated authority.27 J. Matthew DeLesDernier, Assistant Secretary. [FR Doc. 2021–20452 Filed 9–21–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 8011–01–P DEPARTMENT OF STATE [Public Notice 11543] 30-Day Notice of Proposed Information Collection: Electronic Choice of Address and Agent Notice of request for public comment and submission to OMB of proposed collection of information. ACTION: The Department of State has submitted the information collection described below to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for approval. In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 we are requesting comments on this collection from all interested individuals and organizations. The purpose of this Notice is to allow 30 days for public comment. DATES: Submit comments up to October 22, 2021. ADDRESSES: Written comments and recommendations for the proposed information collection should be sent within 30 days of publication of this notice to www.reginfo.gov/public/do/ PRAMain. Find this particular information collection by selecting ‘‘Currently under 30-day Review—Open for Public Comments’’ or by using the search function. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Direct requests for additional information regarding the collection listed in this notice, including requests for copies of the proposed collection instrument, and supporting documents, to A. Lages at PRA_BurdenComments@ state.gov or (202) 485–7586. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: SUMMARY: • Title of Information Collection: Electronic Choice of Address and Agent. 27 17 CFR 200.30–3(a)(12). VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:44 Sep 21, 2021 Jkt 253001 • OMB Control Number: 1405–0186. • Type of Request: Extension of a Currently Approved Collection. • Originating Office: CA/VO. • Form Number: DS–261. • Respondents: Beneficiaries of approved immigrant visa petitions. • Estimated Number of Respondents: 11,000. • Estimated Number of Responses: 11,000. • Average Time per Response: 10 minutes. • Total Estimated Burden Time: 1,833 hours. • Frequency: On Occasion. • Obligation to Respond: Required to Obtain or Retain a Benefit. We are soliciting public comments to permit the Department to: • Evaluate whether the proposed information collection is necessary for the proper functions of the Department. • Evaluate the accuracy of our estimate of the time and cost burden for this proposed collection, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used. • Enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected. • Minimize the reporting burden on those who are to respond, including the use of automated collection techniques or other forms of information technology. Please note that comments submitted in response to this Notice are public record. Before including any detailed personal information, you should be aware that your comments as submitted, including your personal information, will be available for public review. Abstract of Proposed Collection The DS–261 allows the beneficiary of an approved and current immigrant visa petition to provide the Department with his or her preferred email address, which will be used for communications with the beneficiary. The DS–261 also allows the beneficiary to appoint an agent to receive mailings from the National Visa Center (NVC) and assist in the filing of various application forms and/or paying the required fees. The beneficiary is not required to appoint an agent but must provide current contact information. All cases will be held at NVC until the DS–261 is electronically submitted to the Department. PO 00000 Frm 00104 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 52735 Methodology Applicants will complete the form online and submit it electronically to the Department. Julie M. Stufft, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Consular Affairs, Department of State. [FR Doc. 2021–20472 Filed 9–21–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4710–06–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration [Docket No. FMCSA–2011–0389; FMCSA– 2012–0050; FMCSA–2014–0381; FMCSA– 2015–0117; FMCSA–2016–0008; FMCSA– 2019–0028; FMCSA–2019–0030; FMCSA– 2019–0031] Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Notice of renewal of exemptions; request for comments. AGENCY: FMCSA announces its decision to renew exemptions for 13 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: The exemptions are applicable on September 30, 2021. The exemptions expire on September 30, 2023. Comments must be received on or before October 22, 2021. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments identified by the Federal Docket Management System (FDMS) Docket No. FMCSA–2011–0389, Docket No. FMCSA–2012–0050, Docket No. FMCSA–2014–0381, Docket No. FMCSA–2015–0117, Docket No. FMCSA–2016–0008, Docket No. FMCSA–2019–0028, Docket No. FMCSA–2019–0030, or Docket No. FMCSA–2019–0031 using any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to www.regulations.gov/, insert the docket number, FMCSA–2011–0389, FMCSA– 2012–0050, FMCSA–2014–0381, SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\22SEN1.SGM 22SEN1 52736 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 181 / Wednesday, September 22, 2021 / Notices FMCSA–2015–0117, FMCSA–2016– 0008, FMCSA–2019–0028, FMCSA– 2019–0030, or FMCSA–2019–0031 in the keyword box, and click ‘‘Search.’’ Next, sort the results by ‘‘Posted (Newer-Older),’’ choose the first notice listed, and click on the ‘‘Comment’’ button. Follow the online instructions for submitting comments. • Mail: Dockets 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 20590–0001 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, DOT, 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 Dockets 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–2011–0389, Docket No. FMCSA–2012–0050, Docket No. FMCSA–2014–0381, Docket No. FMCSA–2015–0117, Docket No. FMCSA–2016–0008, Docket No. FMCSA–2019–0028, Docket No. FMCSA–2019–0030, or Docket No. FMCSA–2019–0031), 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 www.regulations.gov/, insert the docket VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:44 Sep 21, 2021 Jkt 253001 number, FMCSA–2011–0389, FMCSA– 2012–0050, FMCSA–2014–0381, FMCSA–2015–0117, FMCSA–2016– 0008, FMCSA–2019–0028, FMCSA– 2019–0030, or FMCSA–2019–0031 in the keyword box, and click ‘‘Search.’’ Next, sort the results by ‘‘Posted (Newer-Older),’’ choose the first notice listed, click the ‘‘Comment’’ 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 Comments To view comments go to www.regulations.gov. Insert the docket number, FMCSA–2011–0389, FMCSA– 2012–0050, FMCSA–2014–0381, FMCSA–2015–0117, FMCSA–2016– 0008, FMCSA–2019–0028, FMCSA– 2019–0030, or FMCSA–2019–0031 in the keyword box, and click ‘‘Search.’’ Next, sort the results by ‘‘Posted (Newer-Older),’’ choose the first notice listed, and click ‘‘Browse Comments.’’ If you do not have access to the internet, you may view the docket online by visiting Dockets Operations in Room W12–140 on the ground floor of the DOT West Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590– 0001, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., ET, Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. To be sure someone is there to help you, please call (202) 366–9317 or (202) 366–9826 before visiting Dockets Operations. C. Privacy Act In accordance with 5 U.S.C. 553(c), DOT solicits comments from the public to better inform its regulatory 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 PO 00000 Frm 00105 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 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 epilepsy found in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(8) states that a person is physically qualified to drive a CMV if that person has no established medical history or clinical diagnosis of epilepsy or any other condition which is likely to cause the loss of consciousness or any loss of ability to control a CMV. In addition to the regulations, FMCSA has published advisory criteria 1 to assist Medical Examiners in determining whether drivers with certain medical conditions are qualified to operate a CMV in interstate commerce. The 13 individuals listed in this notice have requested renewal of their exemptions from the epilepsy and seizure disorders prohibition in § 391.41(b)(8), 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 13 applicants has satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an exemption from the epilepsy and seizure disorders prohibition. The 13 drivers in this notice remain in good standing with the 1 These criteria may be found in APPENDIX A TO PART 391—MEDICAL ADVISORY CRITERIA, section H. Epilepsy: § 391.41(b)(8), paragraphs 3, 4, and 5, which is available on the internet at https:// www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CFR-2015-title49-vol5/pdf/ CFR-2015-title49-vol5-part391-appA.pdf. E:\FR\FM\22SEN1.SGM 22SEN1 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 181 / Wednesday, September 22, 2021 / Notices Agency, have maintained their medical monitoring and have not exhibited any medical issues that would compromise their ability to safely operate a CMV during the previous 2-year exemption period. In addition, for Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) holders, the Commercial Driver’s License Information System and the Motor Carrier Management Information System are searched for crash and violation data. For non-CDL holders, the Agency reviews the driving records from the State Driver’s Licensing Agency. These factors provide an adequate basis for predicting each driver’s ability to continue to safely operate a CMV 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. As of September 30, 2021, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315(b), the following 13 individuals have satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an exemption from the epilepsy and seizure disorders prohibition in the FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers: Ronald Boogay (NJ) Todd Brock (CO) Gary Cox (TX) Douglas Day (IN) Tina Farmer (PA) Jim Hughes (WA) David Kietzman (WI) Brian Kinkade (MO) Charles McCarthy (MA) Ryan Moore (NC) Tye Moore (TN) William Rainer, III (TX) Jerel Sayers (ID) The drivers were included in docket number FMCSA–2011–0389, FMCSA– 2012–0050, FMCSA–2014–0381, FMCSA–2015–0117, FMCSA–2016– 0008, FMCSA–2019–0028, FMCSA– 2019–0030, or FMCSA–2019–0031. Their exemptions are applicable as of September 30, 2021 and will expire on September 30, 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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:44 Sep 21, 2021 Jkt 253001 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). 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 13 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. Larry W. Minor, Associate Administrator for Policy. [FR Doc. 2021–20454 Filed 9–21–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–EX–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration [Docket No. FMCSA–2021–0125] Parts and Accessories Necessary for Safe Operation; Application for an Exemption From Keep Truckin, Inc. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Notice of application for exemption; request for comments. AGENCY: FMCSA requests public comment on an application for exemption from Keep Truckin, Inc. (KeepTruckin) to allow its AI Dashcam system, which is equipped with cameras, to be mounted lower in the windshield on commercial motor vehicles than is currently permitted. DATES: Comments must be received on or before October 22, 2021. SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00106 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 52737 You may submit comments identified by Docket Number FMCSA– 2021–0125 using any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov/search/ docket?filter=FMCSA-2021-0125. • 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 or Courier: Dockets Operations, U.S. Department of Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, West Building, Ground Floor, Room W12–140, Washington, DC 20590–0001, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. To be sure someone is there to help you, please call (202) 366–9317 or (202) 366–9826 before visiting Dockets Operations. • Fax: (202) 493–2251. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Jose´ R. Cestero, Vehicle and Roadside Operations Division, Office of Carrier, Driver, and Vehicle Safety, MC–PSV, (202) 366–5541, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590– 0001. If you have questions on viewing or submitting material to the docket, call Dockets Operations at (202) 366–9826. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: ADDRESSES: I. Public Participation and Request for Comments FMCSA encourages you to participate by submitting comments and related materials. Submitting Comments If you submit a comment, please include the docket number for this notice (FMCSA 2021–0125), indicate the specific section of this document to which the 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 FMCSA can contact you if there are questions regarding your submission. To submit your comment online, go to https://www.regulations.gov/ search?filter=FMCSA-2021-0125, look for the reviewed document and click on the ‘‘Comment’’ button. 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. E:\FR\FM\22SEN1.SGM 22SEN1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 181 (Wednesday, September 22, 2021)]
[Notices]
[Pages 52735-52737]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-20454]


=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

[Docket No. FMCSA-2011-0389; FMCSA-2012-0050; FMCSA-2014-0381; FMCSA-
2015-0117; FMCSA-2016-0008; FMCSA-2019-0028; FMCSA-2019-0030; FMCSA-
2019-0031]


Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Epilepsy and 
Seizure Disorders

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

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

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

SUMMARY: FMCSA announces its decision to renew exemptions for 13 
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: The exemptions are applicable on September 30, 2021. The 
exemptions expire on September 30, 2023. Comments must be received on 
or before October 22, 2021.

ADDRESSES: You may submit comments identified by the Federal Docket 
Management System (FDMS) Docket No. FMCSA-2011-0389, Docket No. FMCSA-
2012-0050, Docket No. FMCSA-2014-0381, Docket No. FMCSA-2015-0117, 
Docket No. FMCSA-2016-0008, Docket No. FMCSA-2019-0028, Docket No. 
FMCSA-2019-0030, or Docket No. FMCSA-2019-0031 using any of the 
following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to www.regulations.gov/, 
insert the docket number, FMCSA-2011-0389, FMCSA-2012-0050, FMCSA-2014-
0381,

[[Page 52736]]

FMCSA-2015-0117, FMCSA-2016-0008, FMCSA-2019-0028, FMCSA-2019-0030, or 
FMCSA-2019-0031 in the keyword box, and click ``Search.'' Next, sort 
the results by ``Posted (Newer-Older),'' choose the first notice 
listed, and click on the ``Comment'' button. Follow the online 
instructions for submitting comments.
     Mail: Dockets 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 20590-0001 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, 
DOT, 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 Dockets 
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-2011-0389, Docket No. FMCSA-2012-0050, Docket 
No. FMCSA-2014-0381, Docket No. FMCSA-2015-0117, Docket No. FMCSA-2016-
0008, Docket No. FMCSA-2019-0028, Docket No. FMCSA-2019-0030, or Docket 
No. FMCSA-2019-0031), 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 www.regulations.gov/, insert 
the docket number, FMCSA-2011-0389, FMCSA-2012-0050, FMCSA-2014-0381, 
FMCSA-2015-0117, FMCSA-2016-0008, FMCSA-2019-0028, FMCSA-2019-0030, or 
FMCSA-2019-0031 in the keyword box, and click ``Search.'' Next, sort 
the results by ``Posted (Newer-Older),'' choose the first notice 
listed, click the ``Comment'' 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 Comments

    To view comments go to www.regulations.gov. Insert the docket 
number, FMCSA-2011-0389, FMCSA-2012-0050, FMCSA-2014-0381, FMCSA-2015-
0117, FMCSA-2016-0008, FMCSA-2019-0028, FMCSA-2019-0030, or FMCSA-2019-
0031 in the keyword box, and click ``Search.'' Next, sort the results 
by ``Posted (Newer-Older),'' choose the first notice listed, and click 
``Browse Comments.'' If you do not have access to the internet, you may 
view the docket online by visiting Dockets Operations in Room W12-140 
on the ground floor of the DOT West Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue 
SE, Washington, DC 20590-0001, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., ET, Monday 
through Friday, except Federal holidays. To be sure someone is there to 
help you, please call (202) 366-9317 or (202) 366-9826 before visiting 
Dockets Operations.

C. Privacy Act

    In accordance with 5 U.S.C. 553(c), DOT solicits comments from the 
public to better inform its regulatory 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 epilepsy 
found in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(8) states that a person is physically 
qualified to drive a CMV if that person has no established medical 
history or clinical diagnosis of epilepsy or any other condition which 
is likely to cause the loss of consciousness or any loss of ability to 
control a CMV.
    In addition to the regulations, FMCSA has published advisory 
criteria \1\ to assist Medical Examiners in determining whether drivers 
with certain medical conditions are qualified to operate a CMV in 
interstate commerce.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ These criteria may be found in APPENDIX A TO PART 391--
MEDICAL ADVISORY CRITERIA, section H. Epilepsy: Sec.  391.41(b)(8), 
paragraphs 3, 4, and 5, which is available on the internet at 
https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/CFR-2015-title49-vol5/pdf/CFR-2015-title49-vol5-part391-appA.pdf.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The 13 individuals listed in this notice have requested renewal of 
their exemptions from the epilepsy and seizure disorders prohibition in 
Sec.  391.41(b)(8), 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 13 
applicants has satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an 
exemption from the epilepsy and seizure disorders prohibition. The 13 
drivers in this notice remain in good standing with the

[[Page 52737]]

Agency, have maintained their medical monitoring and have not exhibited 
any medical issues that would compromise their ability to safely 
operate a CMV during the previous 2-year exemption period. In addition, 
for Commercial Driver's License (CDL) holders, the Commercial Driver's 
License Information System and the Motor Carrier Management Information 
System are searched for crash and violation data. For non-CDL holders, 
the Agency reviews the driving records from the State Driver's 
Licensing Agency. These factors provide an adequate basis for 
predicting each driver's ability to continue to safely operate a CMV 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.
    As of September 30, 2021, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) 
and 31315(b), the following 13 individuals have satisfied the renewal 
conditions for obtaining an exemption from the epilepsy and seizure 
disorders prohibition in the FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers:

Ronald Boogay (NJ)
Todd Brock (CO)
Gary Cox (TX)
Douglas Day (IN)
Tina Farmer (PA)
Jim Hughes (WA)
David Kietzman (WI)
Brian Kinkade (MO)
Charles McCarthy (MA)
Ryan Moore (NC)
Tye Moore (TN)
William Rainer, III (TX)
Jerel Sayers (ID)

    The drivers were included in docket number FMCSA-2011-0389, FMCSA-
2012-0050, FMCSA-2014-0381, FMCSA-2015-0117, FMCSA-2016-0008, FMCSA-
2019-0028, FMCSA-2019-0030, or FMCSA-2019-0031. Their exemptions are 
applicable as of September 30, 2021 and will expire on September 30, 
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 Sec.  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 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.

VII. Conclusion

    Based on its evaluation of the 13 exemption applications, FMCSA 
renews the exemptions of the aforementioned drivers from the epilepsy 
and seizure disorders prohibition in Sec.  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.

Larry W. Minor,
Associate Administrator for Policy.
[FR Doc. 2021-20454 Filed 9-21-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-EX-P


This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.