Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders, 31794-31796 [2024-08811]

Download as PDF lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with NOTICES1 31794 Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 81 / Thursday, April 25, 2024 / Notices that represent all roadways on the National Highway System (NHS) and would have little effect on the Nation’s pavement condition. Title: National Tunnel Inspection Program. OMB Control: 2125–0640. Background: This collection is necessary to meet legislative requirements of Title 23 United States Code section 144, and the Code of Federal Regulations, 23 Highways Part 650, Subpart E—National Tunnel Inspection Standards which require States, Federal Agencies, and Tribal Governments to: (1) perform, and report inventory and element data from, initial, routine, damage, in-depth, and special inspections as appropriate for all highway tunnels on public roads, and (2) report critical findings on highway tunnels. The critical findings information is periodically provided to the FHWA. The tunnel information is used for multiple purposes, including: (1) the determination of the condition of the Nation’s tunnels; (2) for various reports to Congress on Tunnel Safety; (3) for conducting oversight of the National Tunnel Inspection Program at the State, Federal agency, and Tribal level; and (4) for strategic national defense needs. Respondents: 42 States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and 4 Federal agencies. The number of inspections per respondent varies in accordance with the National Tunnel Inspection Standards. Frequency: Annually. Estimated Average Burden per Response: The estimated average burden for each tunnel inspection is 40 hours. The estimated average burden for reporting critical findings is 40 hours. Estimated Total Annual Burden Hours: The annual burden hours associated with this renewal is 15,880 hours. This estimated figure is based on annual instances for tunnel inspections multiplied by 40 hours (13,960 hours); plus 40 hours for follow up on critical findings multiplied by 48 respondents (1,920 hours) for a combined annual burden of 15,880 hours. Public Comments Invited: You are asked to comment on any aspect of this information collection, including: (1) Whether the proposed collection is necessary for the FHWA’s performance; (2) the accuracy of the estimated burdens; (3) ways for the FHWA to enhance the quality, usefulness, and clarity of the collected information; and (4) ways that the burden could be minimized, including the use of electronic technology, without reducing the quality of the collected information. The agency will summarize and/or VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:54 Apr 24, 2024 Jkt 262001 include your comments in the request for OMB’s clearance of this information collection. Authority: The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995; 44 U.S.C. chapter 35, as amended; and 49 CFR 1.48. Issued on: April 22, 2024. Jazmyne Lewis, Information Collection Officer. [FR Doc. 2024–08867 Filed 4–24–24; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–22–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration [Docket No. FMCSA–2013–0106; FMCSA– 2013–0442; FMCSA–2015–0115; FMCSA– 2015–0119; FMCSA–2015–0321; FMCSA– 2017–0181; FMCSA–2017–0254; FMCSA– 2019–0030; FMCSA–2019–0036; FMCSA– 2019–0206; FMCSA–2020–0045; FMCSA– 2020–0046; FMCSA–2021–0026; FMCSA– 2022–0042] 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 22 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 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 May 28, 2024. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments identified by the Federal Docket Management System Docket No. FMCSA–2013–0106, Docket No. FMCSA–2013–0442, Docket No. FMCSA–2015–0115, Docket No. FMCSA–2015–0119, Docket No. FMCSA–2015–0321, Docket No. FMCSA–2017–0181, Docket No. FMCSA–2017–0254, Docket No. FMCSA–2019–0030, Docket No. SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00081 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 FMCSA–2019–0036, Docket No. FMCSA–2019–0206, Docket No. FMCSA–2020–0045, Docket No. FMCSA–2020–0046, Docket No. FMCSA–2021–0026, or Docket No. FMCSA–2022–0042 using any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to www.regulations.gov/, insert the docket number (FMCSA–2013–0106, FMCSA– 2013–0442, FMCSA–2015–0115, FMCSA–2015–0119, FMCSA–2015– 0321, FMCSA–2017–0181, FMCSA– 2017–0254, FMCSA–2019–0030, FMCSA–2019–0036, FMCSA–2019– 0206, FMCSA–2020–0045, FMCSA– 2020–0046, FMCSA–2021–0026, or FMCSA–2022–0042) 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, Washington, DC 20590– 0001. • Hand Delivery: West Building Ground Floor, 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, FMCSA, DOT, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590–0001, (202) 366–4001, fmcsamedical@dot.gov. 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–2013–0106, Docket No. FMCSA–2013–0442, Docket No. FMCSA–2015–0115, Docket No. FMCSA–2015–0119, Docket No. FMCSA–2015–0321, Docket No. FMCSA–2017–0181, Docket No. FMCSA–2017–0254, Docket No. FMCSA–2019–0030, Docket No. FMCSA–2019–0036, Docket No. E:\FR\FM\25APN1.SGM 25APN1 Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 81 / Thursday, April 25, 2024 / Notices lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with NOTICES1 FMCSA–2019–0206, Docket No. FMCSA–2020–0045, Docket No. FMCSA–2020–0046, Docket No. FMCSA–2021–0026, or Docket No. FMCSA–2022–0042), 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–2013–0106, FMCSA– 2013–0442, FMCSA–2015–0115, FMCSA–2015–0119, FMCSA–2015– 0321, FMCSA–2017–0181, FMCSA– 2017–0254, FMCSA–2019–0030, FMCSA–2019–0036, FMCSA–2019– 0206, FMCSA–2020–0045, FMCSA– 2020–0046, FMCSA–2021–0026, or FMCSA–2022–0042) 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. 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–2013–0106, FMCSA– 2013–0442, FMCSA–2015–0115, FMCSA–2015–0119, FMCSA–2015– 0321, FMCSA–2017–0181, FMCSA– 2017–0254, FMCSA–2019–0030, FMCSA–2019–0036, FMCSA–2019– 0206, FMCSA–2020–0045, FMCSA– 2020–0046, FMCSA–2021–0026, or FMCSA–2022–0042) 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 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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:54 Apr 24, 2024 Jkt 262001 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 49 U.S.C. 31315(b)(6), DOT solicits comments from the public on the exemption request. 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 (Federal Docket Management System), which can be reviewed at https://www.transportation.gov/ individuals/privacy/privacy-act-systemrecords-notices, the comments are searchable by the name of the submitter. 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 statutes also allow the Agency to renew exemptions at the end of the 5-year period. However, 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. The 22 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 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. PO 00000 Frm 00082 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 31795 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 22 applicants has satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an exemption from the epilepsy and seizure disorders prohibition. The 22 drivers in this notice remain in good standing with the 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. In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315(b), the following groups of drivers received renewed exemptions in the month of May and are discussed below. As of May 6, 2024, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315(b), the following nine individuals have satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an exemption from the epilepsy and seizure disorders prohibition in the FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers: Gary Clark (KY) Michael Curtis (DE) Callon Hegman (IL) Zachary Henson (IL) Gregory Johnson (NC) Robert Lombardo (CA) E:\FR\FM\25APN1.SGM 25APN1 31796 Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 81 / Thursday, April 25, 2024 / Notices Armando Macias-Tovar (FL) Joseph Mendoza (IN) Douglas Slagel (OH) The drivers were included in docket number FMCSA–2013–0106, FMCSA– 2017–0181, FMCSA–2021–0026, or FMCSA–2022–0042 Their exemptions are applicable as of May 6, 2024 and will expire on May 6, 2026. As of May 15, 2024, 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: Barry Dull (OH) Robert J. Forney (WI) Matthew Heinen (MN) Logan Hertzler (PA) Preston Kanagy (TN) Kenneth Lewis (NC) Kevin Market (OH) Gary Olsen (MN) Randy Pinto (PA) Jeffrey Totten (KS) Paul Vitous (WA) Thomas Vivirito (PA) Robert J. Wenner (MN) The drivers were included in docket number FMCSA–2013–0442, FMCSA– 2015–0115, FMCSA–2015–0119, FMCSA–2015–0321, FMCSA–2017– 0181, FMCSA–2017–0254, FMCSA– 2019–0030, FMCSA–2019–0036, FMCSA–2020–0045, or FMCSA–2020– 0046. Their exemptions are applicable as of May 15, 2024 and will expire on May 15, 2026. lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with NOTICES1 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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:54 Apr 24, 2024 Jkt 262001 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 22 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. 2024–08811 Filed 4–24–24; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–EX–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Transit Administration [Docket No.: FTA–2023–0006] Notice of Availability of Programmatic Assessment of Greenhouse Gas Emissions From Transit Projects Federal Transit Administration (FTA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Notice of availability. AGENCY: The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) announces the availability of a Programmatic Assessment of Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Transit Projects (Programmatic Assessment). On September 25, 2023, FTA announced in the Federal Register the availability of the draft Programmatic Assessment and requested public comment. FTA received six comment letters and presents its responses to those comments in this notice. DATES: The final Programmatic Assessment is effective immediately. ADDRESSES: The final Programmatic Assessment will be made available in the U.S. Government’s electronic docket site at https://www.regulations.gov/ docket/FTA-2023-0006 and on the FTA website at https://www.transit.dot.gov/ regulations-and-programs/ environmental-programs/climateconsiderations. SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00083 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Megan Blum, Office of Environmental Programs, (202) 366–0463, Megan.Blum@dot.gov, or Alexandra Brun, Office of Environmental Programs, (202) 366–7469, Alexandra.Brun@dot.gov; Mark Montgomery, Office of Chief Counsel, (202) 366–1017, Mark.Montgomery@ dot.gov. Office hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Background The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requires Federal agencies to disclose and analyze the environmental effects of their proposed actions. In 2016, the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) issued the Final Guidance for Federal Departments and Agencies on Consideration of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and the Effects of Climate Change in National Environmental Policy Act Reviews (81 FR 51866) (2016 CEQ guidance), which provided a framework for agencies to consider the effects of a proposed action on climate change, as indicated by its estimated GHG emissions and advised agencies to assess the effects of climate change on their proposed actions. The 2016 CEQ guidance also acknowledged that incorporation by reference is of great value in considering GHG emissions or the implications of climate change for the proposed action and its environmental effects. The 2016 CEQ guidance noted that an agency may decide that it would be useful and efficient to provide an aggregate analysis of GHG emissions or climate change effects in a programmatic analysis and then incorporate that analysis by reference into future NEPA reviews. FTA considers it practicable to assess the effects of GHG emissions and climate change for transit projects at a programmatic level, where possible. In January 2017, FTA published a Programmatic Assessment of Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Transit Projects (82 FR 5636) based on the 2016 CEQ guidance framework. In January 2023, CEQ issued the National Environmental Policy Act Guidance on Consideration of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Climate Change (88 FR 1196) (2023 CEQ guidance) to assist agencies in analyzing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and climate change effects of their proposed actions under NEPA. The 2023 CEQ guidance continues to support a programmatic approach for assessing GHG emissions from transit projects. The 2024 Programmatic Assessment of Greenhouse Gas Emissions from E:\FR\FM\25APN1.SGM 25APN1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 89, Number 81 (Thursday, April 25, 2024)]
[Notices]
[Pages 31794-31796]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2024-08811]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

[Docket No. FMCSA-2013-0106; FMCSA-2013-0442; FMCSA-2015-0115; FMCSA-
2015-0119; FMCSA-2015-0321; FMCSA-2017-0181; FMCSA-2017-0254; FMCSA-
2019-0030; FMCSA-2019-0036; FMCSA-2019-0206; FMCSA-2020-0045; FMCSA-
2020-0046; FMCSA-2021-0026; FMCSA-2022-0042]


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 22 
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 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 May 28, 
2024.

ADDRESSES: You may submit comments identified by the Federal Docket 
Management System Docket No. FMCSA-2013-0106, Docket No. FMCSA-2013-
0442, Docket No. FMCSA-2015-0115, Docket No. FMCSA-2015-0119, Docket 
No. FMCSA-2015-0321, Docket No. FMCSA-2017-0181, Docket No. FMCSA-2017-
0254, Docket No. FMCSA-2019-0030, Docket No. FMCSA-2019-0036, Docket 
No. FMCSA-2019-0206, Docket No. FMCSA-2020-0045, Docket No. FMCSA-2020-
0046, Docket No. FMCSA-2021-0026, or Docket No. FMCSA-2022-0042 using 
any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to www.regulations.gov/, 
insert the docket number (FMCSA-2013-0106, FMCSA-2013-0442, FMCSA-2015-
0115, FMCSA-2015-0119, FMCSA-2015-0321, FMCSA-2017-0181, FMCSA-2017-
0254, FMCSA-2019-0030, FMCSA-2019-0036, FMCSA-2019-0206, FMCSA-2020-
0045, FMCSA-2020-0046, FMCSA-2021-0026, or FMCSA-2022-0042) 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, 
Washington, DC 20590-0001.
     Hand Delivery: West Building Ground Floor, 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, FMCSA, DOT, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, 
Washington, DC 20590-0001, (202) 366-4001, [email protected]. 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-2013-0106, Docket No. FMCSA-2013-0442, Docket 
No. FMCSA-2015-0115, Docket No. FMCSA-2015-0119, Docket No. FMCSA-2015-
0321, Docket No. FMCSA-2017-0181, Docket No. FMCSA-2017-0254, Docket 
No. FMCSA-2019-0030, Docket No. FMCSA-2019-0036, Docket No.

[[Page 31795]]

FMCSA-2019-0206, Docket No. FMCSA-2020-0045, Docket No. FMCSA-2020-
0046, Docket No. FMCSA-2021-0026, or Docket No. FMCSA-2022-0042), 
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-2013-0106, FMCSA-2013-0442, FMCSA-2015-0115, 
FMCSA-2015-0119, FMCSA-2015-0321, FMCSA-2017-0181, FMCSA-2017-0254, 
FMCSA-2019-0030, FMCSA-2019-0036, FMCSA-2019-0206, FMCSA-2020-0045, 
FMCSA-2020-0046, FMCSA-2021-0026, or FMCSA-2022-0042) 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. 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-2013-0106, FMCSA-2013-0442, FMCSA-2015-0115, FMCSA-2015-
0119, FMCSA-2015-0321, FMCSA-2017-0181, FMCSA-2017-0254, FMCSA-2019-
0030, FMCSA-2019-0036, FMCSA-2019-0206, FMCSA-2020-0045, FMCSA-2020-
0046, FMCSA-2021-0026, or FMCSA-2022-0042) 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 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 49 U.S.C. 31315(b)(6), DOT solicits comments 
from the public on the exemption request. 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 (Federal Docket Management System), which can be 
reviewed at https://www.transportation.gov/individuals/privacy/privacy-act-system-records-notices, the comments are searchable by the name of 
the submitter.

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 statutes also allow the Agency to renew exemptions at 
the end of the 5-year period. However, 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.
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    The 22 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 22 
applicants has satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an 
exemption from the epilepsy and seizure disorders prohibition. The 22 
drivers in this notice remain in good standing with the 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.
    In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315(b), the following 
groups of drivers received renewed exemptions in the month of May and 
are discussed below.
    As of May 6, 2024, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 
31315(b), the following nine individuals have satisfied the renewal 
conditions for obtaining an exemption from the epilepsy and seizure 
disorders prohibition in the FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers:

Gary Clark (KY)
Michael Curtis (DE)
Callon Hegman (IL)
Zachary Henson (IL)
Gregory Johnson (NC)
Robert Lombardo (CA)

[[Page 31796]]

Armando Macias-Tovar (FL)
Joseph Mendoza (IN)
Douglas Slagel (OH)

    The drivers were included in docket number FMCSA-2013-0106, FMCSA-
2017-0181, FMCSA-2021-0026, or FMCSA-2022-0042 Their exemptions are 
applicable as of May 6, 2024 and will expire on May 6, 2026.
    As of May 15, 2024, 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:

Barry Dull (OH)
Robert J. Forney (WI)
Matthew Heinen (MN)
Logan Hertzler (PA)
Preston Kanagy (TN)
Kenneth Lewis (NC)
Kevin Market (OH)
Gary Olsen (MN)
Randy Pinto (PA)
Jeffrey Totten (KS)
Paul Vitous (WA)
Thomas Vivirito (PA)
Robert J. Wenner (MN)

    The drivers were included in docket number FMCSA-2013-0442, FMCSA-
2015-0115, FMCSA-2015-0119, FMCSA-2015-0321, FMCSA-2017-0181, FMCSA-
2017-0254, FMCSA-2019-0030, FMCSA-2019-0036, FMCSA-2020-0045, or FMCSA-
2020-0046. Their exemptions are applicable as of May 15, 2024 and will 
expire on May 15, 2026.

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 22 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. 2024-08811 Filed 4-24-24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-EX-P
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